PICTURES: Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Emma Roddick sees the work of young person bereavement service the Crocus Group at Highland Hospice
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
A local MSP has visited Highland Hospice to see the Crocus Group – the charity’s child and young person bereavement service.
Emma Roddick, who represents the Highlands and Islands, met childhood bereavement co-ordinator Julia McKillop, childhood bereavement support worker Louise Mainland, as well as young people who have benefited from the service.
The MSP said she wanted to find out more about what it does, adding: “Accessing help is so important for children who have experienced bereavement, and are dealing with the feelings and emotions that go with this, and I am so appreciative that this service exists in the Highlands.
“Although I have not personally experienced the help on offer, I was referred to the Crocus Group by my guidance teacher when I was younger.
“I often wonder if things would have been different had I accessed this support.”
Ms McKillop said they were delighted to welcome her to the group and gave her an insight into what they did.
She said: “Crocus can be a fundamental part of helping children with the grieving process; it helps them to understand death, dying and grief within a safe environment where they are the main focus.
“Most importantly, Crocus helps children and young people to tell their stories honestly, and without judgement, while supporting them to navigate through a confusing and difficult time.”
• For more visit the Highland Hospice website.
