Children’s Groups
Primrose Hospice offers specialised group support for children and young people who are coping with bereavement or the impact of a life-limiting illness in their family.
These groups provide a safe, supportive space where children can meet others their age, share experiences, and explore their feelings in a way that feels comfortable for them.
How can group support help Children and Young People?
Taking part in a support group can help children and young people to:
– Feel less alone by meeting others in a similar situation
– Build confidence in expressing feelings
– Develop coping strategies for difficult emotions
– Understand that their thoughts and feelings are normal
– Have fun and enjoy positive shared experiences
We understand that joining a group can feel like a big step – for both children and their families. Support is always tailored to the needs of each child.
Our groups are friendly, welcoming and led by experienced staff. Children can take part at their own pace, and there is no pressure to talk if they are not ready.
What to expect from a group session?
Sessions are designed to be age-appropriate, engaging and supportive.
Activities may include:
– Creative activities such as art or crafts
– Games and structured group discussions
– Opportunities to talk and share (if they wish)
– Relaxed time to connect with others
– Trips out for alternative activities
Our aim is to create a balance between support, expression and positive experiences.
ChYPS (Children and Young People’s Support):
This group gives children the opportunity to meet others in a similar situation to themselves. We provide activities to help build resilience, articulate feelings and create and record memories.
– Age range: A monthly group for children aged 12 and under.
– Format: small group sessions.
Download our ChYPS information here or below.
Teen Group:
The group encourages peer support, resilience building and a safe space to explore their experiences.
– Age range: A monthly group for children 13+.
– Format: relaxed and supportive group sessions.
Download our Teen Group information here or below.
Explorations:
This group runs during the school holidays and is a forest school-based group exploring feelings and memories in our beautiful Hospice gardens.
– Age range: For all ages but most commonly 7-12.
– Format: relaxed and supportive outdoor group sessions.
Download our Explorations information here or below.
Mindful Minecraft:
This is a small group exploring memories and emotions through playing the popular online game – Minecraft.
– Age range: For all ages.
– Format: relaxed and supportive small group sessions.
Our Children’s team have received specialised training in using Minecraft therapeutically from Ellie Finch who is a BACP registered experienced counsellor who specialises in supporting children and parents.
Aagh Anger:
We work in partnership with Verve Kick Boxing to provide this group which explores positive ways of expressing anger.
– Age range: For all ages.
– Format: relaxed and supportive group sessions.
Paws and Reflect:
In this group children learn about animal’s care needs whilst also considering their own self care and coping strategies for when they are not feeling great.
– Age range: For all ages.
– Format: relaxed and supportive group sessions.
Children and young people are referred into our services before joining a group.
If you would like more information or would like to make a referral please visit this page.
Through the assessment process, appropriate groups will be discussed. Some children and young people we support will access groups alongside one to one support, however, some children may just access group support or one to one support. Not every group will be appropriate for every child and young person and our experienced family support practitioners will assess each child’s needs.
Find out more about the Adult Family support we provide here.
Children’s Group Support FAQs:
Does my child have to talk in the group?
No. Children can take part in activities and talk when they feel ready.
What if my child is shy or nervous?
This is very common, our team will help them feel comfortable and supported.
Do I need a referral?
Yes, children are usually referred into the service before joining a group.
Will I be kept informed as a parent or carer?
We like to work closely with families during support whilst also respecting children and young people’s need for a safe space and confidentiality. If there are an concerns about the child, young persons and anyone else safety then this information will be shared.
Is the service free?
Yes, all Primrose Hospice services are free of charge. If you would like to make a donation, please visit this page.
