The financial implications for parents of the death of a child

While much is now known about the financial implications for families caring for a chronically sick or disabled child, there has been little research on the financial impact of the death of children. This exploratory study aims to throw light on issues that contribute to families' financial difficulties following bereavement, such as the withdrawal of some benefits and the cost of funeral expenses. Working with one hospice, with experience of offering on-going support to 400 bereaved families, the researchers interviewed parents in 17 families, talked with key staff in health and social services and in the hospice, and carried out a postal survey of all children's hospices and a number of bereavement services and support groups for parents.