We have once again held a day for families bereaved through suicide, which has enabled those families to meet and share. These days are very special and tend to be smaller than our regular workshop groups. Children and parents meet separately and gain so much strength from each other. The day goes very quickly and for children includes the making of a graffiti wall, a film strip, making candles, telling the story, drama, swimming and a picnic lunch. The parents/carers have the opportunity to talk, listen and receive complementary therapies. Feedback was excellent and some parents are going to help in the writing of a new CHUMS leaflet for families bereaved through suicide.

In July we held a family day for all who had been referred in the previous year. It was held at Keech Cottage Children’s Hospice and funded by Friends of CHUMS. We had over 100 children, young people, parents, carers and volunteers attend. It was a fantastic experience, the morning was facilitated by an organisation called Contempo and they brought with them 100 African musical instruments. Everyone joined in to make music together. A picnic and games in the park followed and the afternoon comprised a drama sketch for the children which they later presented to parents and carers or a swim whilst the parents and carers were given the opportunity of receiving complementary therapies. This year we plan to repeat the family day but offer a circus workshop.