Child Bereavement campaigners deliver petition to Downing Street

Edinburgh West MP Christine Jardine joined charities and young people affected by bereavement, in Westminster today (11.07.23), to call on the UK Government to introduce a national child bereavement register.

There are currently an estimated 46,000 people under the age of 18 bereaved by the loss of a parent every year. However, the real figure is unknown as there is currently no official way of recording this data.

Christine has first-hand experience of losing a parent and believes the Government needs to act so that no bereaved child is left behind.

Christine said:

“It was inspiring to meet with these children and listen to their stories. It was heartbreaking that some of them were waiting years until they were supported by the great work of these charities. 

"It's not fair that they went so long unaware of the help that was available to them. That is why we must change the system.

“This just goes to emphasise the need for a national register so that when someone's parent passes away, charities can quickly identify who needs help and get them that support.

“If we are going to get these children the right support then we need the Government to step up and prioritise this. This doesn't require massive service changes or large sums of money.

“I know first-hand the pain of losing a parent. This trauma stays with you throughout your life and therefore, I am determined to ensure that any child suffering is recognised and supported.

"There is genuine support in the Government to set up this register and help those children who are bereaved. We just need Government departments to work together to find a way and get this done.”