Supporting Bereaved Children: How the Foresters Child Support Fund Offers Hope and Help
When Loss Strikes Young: The Reality of Childhood Bereavement
Losing a parent is one of the most traumatic experiences a child can face. In the UK, around 43,000 children lose a parent each year due to death, while many more live with the emotional strain of a parent suffering from serious illness.
These children are not only grieving—they’re often thrust into financial uncertainty and emotional isolation. The Foresters Child Support Fund exists to offer a lifeline during this incredibly difficult time.
Key Statistics on Bereaved Children
Understanding the scale and impact of childhood bereavement is essential:
- Child Bereavement: Research indicates that approximately 1 in 20 children in the UK will have experienced the death of a parent by the time they reach 16 years old.
- Emotional Impact: According to a study by Child Bereavement UK, 30% of bereaved children display significant emotional distress, which can lead to long-term mental health issues if not addressed timely.
Understanding the impact of bereavement on young lives is crucial in providing the appropriate support. Children who suffer the loss of a parent can struggle academically and socially, facing challenges that are both emotional and practical.
How the Foresters Child Support Fund Helps
The Foresters Child Support Fund provides targeted, discretionary support to help bereaved children cope with both the emotional and practical challenges of loss:
- Financial Assistance: Discretionary Grants help cover essential costs such as school supplies, clothing, and other everyday needs that may become difficult to afford after the loss of a parent.
- Educational Support: Bereavement can disrupt a child’s education. The fund offers support for tutoring, clubs and learning resources to help children stay on track academically.
- Mental Health Resources: Grieving children often need professional support. The fund helps families access counselling and therapeutic services to support emotional healing.
Real Stories, Real Impact
“I applied for the Foresters Child Support Fund after the passing of my husband to help with my daughter’s upbringing as a single parent. The first 6 months of my husband passing was utter chaos as you can imagine. Not only the emotional turmoil but also the amount of things I had to handle and sort out.
One day I received the annual report from foresters and was just looking through the leaflet, when I found out about the child support fund and discovered that I would be able to receive it. Something which is going to be unbelievably helpful for us after I suddenly became a single parent to my daughters. To be honest, I didn’t realise the extent of which Foresters support their members before and I am so grateful!”
– Rumi, Parent from Littlehampton
Additional Resources for Bereaved Families
In addition to the Foresters Child Support Fund, these organisations offer valuable support:
These charities provide emotional guidance, practical advice, and community support for grieving children and their families.
How to Access the Foresters Child Support Fund
The fund is available to children who need support, up to and including the age of 19. In order to apply for a grant from the Foresters Child Support Fund you must meet the following criteria:
- You must have been a member of the Society for at least six months
- The purpose is to provide grants for children up to and including the age of 19 in the following circumstances:
- Children who are bereft of one or both parents
- Children who have parents that are incapacitated
- Children who themselves are incapacitated or are registered as having special needs
- Children who are carers
- In every case either the child or parent must have been a member before the death or incapacity occurred
How to Apply
Applying for a Child Support Fund Grant is straightforward:
- Download or request the application form from Foresters Friendly Society.
- Complete all sections, ensuring you include personal details and the reason for your application.
- Submit your application to your Branch Secretary for them to sign. Once signed, the form should be posted to our Helpdesk at the address stated on the application form.
Learn More About the Child Support Fund
Conclusion: No Child Should Grieve Alone
The loss of a parent changes everything. But with the right support, bereaved children can find strength, stability, and hope for the future. The Foresters Child Support Fund is here to ensure that no child has to walk this difficult path alone.
Know a child who could benefit? Share this resource and help make a difference.
Not a member of Foresters Friendly Society?
Membership includes access to:
- Discretionary financial support
- Support from Foresters Care provided by RedArc
- Social and community events for friendship and fun
All grants offered by the Society are discretionary. Qualifying periods apply. The membership benefits we provide aren’t regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority or the Prudential Regulation Authority and are regularly reviewed by us to ensure they are relevant to our members.