SIBBS Newsletter Summer 2022

SIBBS Newsletter, Summer 2022 | www.tcf.org.uk 5 Life After Death: Experiences of Sibling Bereavement over the Life Course Study Overview The overarching aim of this research was to prioritise and discover more about people’s long term experiences of sibling bereavement. A final count of 36 individuals, aged between 19 and 66 years at the time of meeting, took part in the research. In-depth interviews, lasting on average 2 hours each, were carried out in various locations across England. These were each recorded, transcribed and analysed by Laura. What follows is the findings of this analysis. Findings in Brief This section briefly outlines the main learning points to be highlighted: • Sibling bereavement needs and deserves far greater focus and attention than it currently receives. Public understanding emphasises that the loss of a child is a terrible tragedy that no one should have to face but no common understanding exists for siblings, and so their grief is under-valued and overlooked. More attention must be given to siblings, along with greater recognition of the significance, and difference, of their loss. • Bereavement is strongly shaped by relationships. The way an individual grieves and mourns is hugely affected by those around them, including but not limited to, family, friends, colleagues and partners. For siblings, the biggest influence is often their parents. Feelings of responsibility and a duty of care often shape the way that siblings experience their bereavement but crucially, these emotions should not be assumed to be negative or limiting. It is important to hear individual voices and recognise the complexities of this relationship.