The Ellis Edwards Foundation aspires to relieve the emotional and psychological distress experienced by a child who has lost a sibling or parent to cancer.
The charity aims to improve the wellbeing of these bereaved children by providing respite activities that allow a grief break so that the children can recharge and be better ready to process their emotions further. We also hope that whilst bereaved siblings are engaged in activities, it will allow other members of the family to also focus on themselves. The EEF also offers services such as counselling, family respite activities and creative community events.
The loss of sibling or parent during childhood is a traumatic and often isolating experience. By offering structured emotional support, the charity hopes to reduce anxiety, depression and long term mental health risks, giving young people the tools they need to communicate their emotions and validate their feelings with professionals. All services will be provided without discrimination and will be accessible to families regardless of financial means, ensuring the public benefit is clear, inclusive and targeted to those in genuine need.
The charity aims to support healthy emotional development for bereaved children, increase community awareness of childhood grief and to help families to be stronger together whilst dealing with the tragic loss of a loved one.