Roots of Support is the Dove House Hospice children’s bereavement service. The service operate across Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire providing vital emotional support for young people coping with the loss of a loved one.

The impact of bereavement on children and teenagers can be devastating, including changes in their behaviour, their physical and emotional wellbeing and educational achievement. Although grief reactions are normal following the death of a loved one, sometimes having support can help a child have a better understanding of their emotions.

Roots of Support enables children and teenagers to share their feelings safely and give them strategies to cope in the future.

The main service Roots of Support offers are Children's Bereavement Groups which give children and teenagers who have experienced bereavement the knowledge that they are not alone and to be with other people who will understand them in a safe, caring and supportive environment. The groups take place in the hospice's Amy Johnson Community Hub on selected evenings and weekends. One to one sessions are also available for young people if the team feel they will be beneficial.
 

Who can access Roots of Support?


Roots of Support can help children from 6 to 17 with separate services and groups for different ages. The Children's Bereavement Groups are separated for 6 to 11 year olds and 12 to 17 year olds.

Roots for Support is here for all children, not only those whose loved one died at Dove House Hospice. Children and teenagers who have experienced all types of bereavement, including those from illness, suicide, accidents and murder, and where the bereavement is due to the death of a parent, grandparent or anyone who is significant to the child, are welcome.

Make a referral

Working with Schools


Roots of Support runs dedicated support groups within schools, offering safe, supportive spaces
where bereaved children can connect with others who have experienced similar losses.
Sessions encourage the sharing of memories and experiences, helping young people feel less isolated in their grief.

This compassionate approach not only fosters emotional resilience but also contributes to improved wellbeing and school attendance, playing a key role in reducing emotional-based school avoidance (EBSA). As a result, schools see more engaged and emotionally supported pupils who are better equipped to cope with daily challenges. We offer a course of four-week sessions which last two hours each for groups of up to eight students.

Find out more

The Roots of Support team will be happy to provide further information
Make a Referral
Department
Roots of Support
Phone:
01482 785745
Location:
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