The twin brother of a boy in our youth group has a terminal illness. While recognising that the situation is private, how can we support him and prepare the other young people for when he might need them most?
It is always tragic when siblings are lost, and as a twin, it is almost impossible to imagine how he must be feeling. He will certainly need a great deal of support and space to deal with his emotions.
He may well need some support right now, as we rarely know how to deal with the news that someone we love is dying, and emotions can be all over the place. His parents too will be in a desperate state. He will want and need to talk, share feelings and ask questions, but could be trying to protect his parents from his pain and confusion.
There are several organisations that provide support. Tamba.org.uk and crusebereavementcare.org.uk specialise in sibling bereavement in childhood and youth.
Answered by Tracie Trimmer-Platman, senior lecturer in youth and community work at the University of East London
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