Supporting Norfolk's Young People When They Need It Most

The death of someone close is one of the most difficult experiences a child can face. In the days and weeks that follow, families are often trying to come to terms with their bereavement while finding the right way to support the young people around them.

That is why the Clan Trust is delighted to support Nelson's Journey with funding for 120 Smiles and Tears boxes for bereaved children and young people across Norfolk.

Each box is carefully put together to provide comfort, reassurance and practical support during the early stages of grief. Filled with age-appropriate resources, activities and small treats, they are designed to help children understand their feelings, remember the person they have lost and know that they are not facing their grief alone.

The boxes are provided through Nelson's Journey's Early Support service, which helps families in the first few weeks following a bereavement. It is often a time when emotions are raw, routines have been turned upside down and parents and carers are searching for ways to help their children make sense of what has happened.

The Smiles and Tears boxes were created by Nelson's Journey Young Volunteers, many of whom have been bereaved themselves. Their aim was simple: to create something they wished they had received when they were grieving.

The impact can be felt in the words of one young recipient:

"I really loved my box of special things. I love my book about my friend, and our memories are there safe, so we won't forget him. I still feel very sad, but I have my snow leopard to cuddle and think of him."

Thanks to this funding, 120 children and young people across Norfolk will receive a box over the coming year, giving them access to resources and support at a time when it matters most.

Maisie Close, Funding and Marketing Officer at Nelson's Journey, said:

"A huge thank you to the Clan Trust for their generous funding of our Smiles and Tears boxes. These gift boxes are sent to children and young people in the weeks following a bereavement of someone close to them, to provide them with resources and treats to support them through the early days of their grief. This funding will allow 120 boxes to be sent out, therefore the Clan Trust is directly supporting 120 bereaved children and young people across Norfolk."

At the Clan Trust, we believe in supporting organisations that make a real difference to people's lives. We are proud to play a small part in helping children and young people across Norfolk feel supported, understood and cared for during some of their hardest days.

To find out more about Nelson's Journey and the support they provide to bereaved children and young people across Norfolk, visit their website at www.nelsonsjourney.org.uk.