Further/Higher Education

Information for tutors, lecturers and those working in student welfare at higher education institutes, further education colleges and at university

Beyond the age of 18, young people are maturing and developing their individuality and sense of self. Students have left the security of school and established friendships; many will be living away from home for the first time.

At this point of great change in their lives, bereaved students can become unsettled and feelings associated with the grief can be stirred up. A student bereaved at college or university can struggle to manage their grief alongside their studies and may become overwhelmed by their emotions.

People are often at a loss as to know what to say or do to help a student who has been bereaved by the death of someone important to them. 

Most grieving young people do not need a ‘bereavement expert’ they need people who care. 

Useful links

Students and graduates of animation and VFX as part of Bournemouth University’s prestigious BFX Competition, produced some animated films for Child Bereavement UK, to reach young people and students so that they know how to access support and feel less alone in their grief. The films feature a young person whose brother has died and a young person at university whose dad has died. With the support of Child Bereavement UK, both begin to rebuild their lives. View these films here.