How We Can Help

Support
The Bluebell Foundation offers support and information to parents, families and others affected by:
- The death of a baby- before or after birth- or a youngster throughout childhood
- The life-limiting or life-threatening illness of a baby or child
- Infertility and related circumstances
- Early termination or loss of a pregnancy
- Facing difficult decisions relating to pregnancy
We also offer support for children and young people up to the age of 18 who are:
- Grieving through the death of someone important to them
- Grieving through the anticipated death of someone important to them
If you think we can help you, or someone close to you, then please do not hesitate to get in touch, we will be on hand to provide as much assistance as we can.
Training
We can also provide training and support to professionals working with bereavement*
* We provide support and information free of charge. However, we are always happy to receive help. If you are interested in becoming involved in raising funds or would like to join our committee please contact us. No experience necessary.
HELP WHEN A BABY OR CHILD IS SERIOUSLY ILL
Many people know that they can call on Bluebell after a baby or child has died but did you know that Bluebell also supports families when a child is seriously ill (i.e. parent/s, grandparents, siblings etc.)?
People tell us that they can feel quite alone and want to talk with someone who is not a nurse or doctor, or emotionally involved, at such a difficult time. Bluebell can meet with the family together or just those who feel it might help.
Sometimes just to talk with someone from Bluebell on the phone, or text/email one other, is enough in the busy schedule of hospital visiting. We want to be there in the way that is most helpful at this stressful time.
“If the illness is serious, if it will change their parent or sibling in some way, if it’s already making members of the family worried or stressed – then it will affect the children. There are ways of talking about what is happening, sharing feelings and preparing for the journey ahead. The aim is for the children to feel resilient and strong, and confident enough to share the natural feelings of loss when someone they care about is seriously ill” – Winston’s Wish website.
It may be that you are finding it hard to keep the other children up to date or are struggling with what words to use.
We can give advice on how to tell siblings that their brother or sister may not, or is not, going to get better. Please get in touch and we will provide support in trying to help you with these difficult issues.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I talk to someone?
Yes! We offer the opportunity for you to talk in confidence to one of our team, or directly to our trained Bluebell Practitioner.
Where would we meet?
We can meet you in our premises, located at County Coachworks in Barrow-in-Furness. The location is wheelchair accessible and on the ground floor.
We are also able to meet virtually via Zoom, Skype, WhatsApp, or we can communicate via Telephone.
If you cannot make it to the premises due to serious illness or disability and are unhappy with virtual contact, please let us know and we may be able to schedule a home visit.
Do I have to see you on my own?
You are free to meet with the practitioner on your own terms. We can meet you on your own, as a couple, or as a family. Bringing a close friend who may be able to provide support is also welcome.
What does it cost?
As we want Bluebell support to be available to all, there is no charge at the point of contact, although donations are always welcome!
Do you run any groups?
From time to time we hold support groups. These vary and may be for parents, grandparents, siblings or the whole family. We also hold family remembrance days.
What about help for organisations?
We offer support and bespoke training to health and education professionals and other organisations.*
*Please note that whilst our service is offered free to individuals and their families seeking support, for organisations an appropriate fee will be negotiated.
Is there anywhere else I could find help?
We are always here to answer any questions you may have and help point you in the right direction to ensure you receive the best services and help possible.
We also have a Useful Links page, which has guidance on similar charities and services which may also be able to assist you. Please take a look if you think it may help, and keep in mind we will do our very best to support you.
How Talking Helped
The loss of my twin boy
The loss of my twin boy at 23 weeks pregnant was so difficult at many stages, from the moment we had an operation to try and save him and his brother, to continuing throughout the pregnancy, the birth and constant milestones that his surviving brother reaches. I realised I hadn’t properly grieved for him until a trigger occurred two years after his passing.
Bluebell has helped me open up about the loss, talk openly about the mental challenges, how to cope with these and to help me and my family honour our lost twin especially to his brother. The support was so valuable, I can’t thank you enough.
I was bereaved through miscarriage
When I had a miscarriage at 9 weeks I felt as though I shouldn’t grieve as I hadn’t been far on in my pregnancy. I was distraught and Joy helped me give myself permission to get upset and accept my feelings as valid. When it happened a second time I felt as if I would never have my longed for child and that I was to blame. Again I was supported and encouraged to grieve properly and allow myself to heal. The service was invaluable to me and I want other people to be able to benefit as I did.
When our teenage son died
When our world fell apart with the death of our 16 year old son, the Bereavement Service was like a lifeline. It helped us to come to terms with our loss due to the Professional Counsellor we had and to learn to carry on with life and cope with our grief. I only have respect and praise for such people and I hope we can help continue counselling for the unfortunate parents and families that may need such help in the future.