It is difficult to find exact figures of how many children in the UK have been bereaved of a parent or close family member during the pandemic, but a 2019 report by Cambridge University highlighted that more than 41,000 children under 18 in the UK lose a parent every year. If deaths of siblings are included, that number rises to at least 45,000 every year (The Guardian, 2019).
If we look at the current numbers of deaths across the UK, we have to assume that a significant number of children must have been affected, not just within the family but also through the loss of friends, neighbours and even practitioners they have known in childcare or school settings.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
