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Life After Death: Experiences of Sibling Bereavement over the Life Course

Based upon 4 years of research, Dr Laura Towers discussed the findings of her study which sought to explore people’s experiences of sibling bereavement. Though everyone’s account is different, owing to the uniqueness of personal relationships, Laura explored some of the common themes that were raised by participants.

In contrast to the psychological literature that currently dominates understanding, Laura’s approach instead focused on the social aspects of bereavement. For example, how are relationships between the living affected by a death, and how do siblings navigate social situations when conversation turns to family? Central to the study was a focus on time, seeking to understand further how these answers might change and evolve as the years pass by. A summary of her findings are also included in the Summer 2022 edition of the TCF SIBBS newsletter

This event was open to everyone - bereaved siblings, parents, professionals and other family members. The aim was to shed more light on the ways that individuals, their lives and their relationships, are affected by the death of a sibling. Laura presented her key findings and then opened up the conversation for comments and questions. It was a fantastic evening where we learnt so much about the sibling experience of bereavement - thank you to Laura for sharing her research and to TCF Trustee, Claire, for hosting the event.

Here is a link to Laura's thesis online Life After Death: Experiences of Sibling Bereavement Over the Life Course - White Rose eTheses Online

Laura Towers is a Research Fellow in the Department of Sociological Studies at the University of Sheffield. She is also a bereaved sibling, following the death of her older brother, Sean, when she was 18.

The evening was hosted by Trustee of The Compassionate Friends, Claire Coveney.