The Police and Bereaved Parents

UK Helpline: 0345 123 2304 | www.tcf.org.uk Breaking the news of a child's death to their parents Summary of essential steps • Preparation: Bring along all available and relevant information. • Disclosure: Give the news about their child's death to the parents first, before revealing this to others. • Composure: If necessary, take a few moments on the doorstep to ensure you feel calm and competent. Prepare yourself for a range of strong reactions. • Introduction: Give your name and rank clearly. Ask permission to come inside. Invite the parents to sit. • Situation: Find out whether there are any other children in the household. • Communication: State the reason for your visit clearly, without euphemisms. Avoid jargon or clichés. Refer to the child by their name or as ‘son’ or daughter’. • Focus: Give the parents your full attention. Try to take as much time for this conversation as they need. • Transport: Help the parents with arrangements for identifying their child and/or visiting them in the mortuary. • Support: Give them your own contact details and/or of the FLO who will be assigned to them. Offer information about The Compassionate Friends. • Before leaving: Avoid leaving a parent alone, unless they specifically request this. Find out if there is anyone you can contact on their behalf.