When a child or young person dies suddenly, the impact reaches far beyond their family. First responders, healthcare staff, teachers, social workers, and other professionals often witness trauma firsthand—yet they are rarely offered the emotional space they need to process what they’ve experienced. At 2wish, our debrief sessions exist to change that.
As part of our Immediate Support Service, 2wish offers specialist debrief sessions for professionals who have been affected by the sudden and unexpected death of a child or young person. These sessions are coordinated by our Immediate Support and Debrief Manager whose work includes supporting families, professionals and individuals who have experienced sudden bereavement.
The purpose of these sessions is to create a safe place where professionals can reflect on what happened, understand the emotional and physical effects of trauma and receive guidance on coping strategies. The service is trauma informed, responsive and designed to meet the complex needs of those who have encountered profound loss in their working roles.
Professionals often feel pressure to appear strong at all times. Many believe they should be able to absorb difficult experiences without showing vulnerability. In reality, acknowledging the emotional effects of trauma is an important part of maintaining wellbeing and continuing to provide compassionate care.
2wish recognises that those who witness sudden bereavement can be deeply affected and therefore provides consistent and high quality support that responds to individual needs. Seeking help is not a weakness. It is an essential act of self care. It is a reminder that emotional resilience requires nourishment and that people cannot continue to give support when they are running on empty.
Our You Cannot Pour from an Empty Cup campaign highlights the importance of looking after your own emotional health so you are able to support others. Debrief sessions reflect this message in a very real way. They give professionals the time and space to process the difficult experiences that come with their roles.
We encourage professionals to recognise that emotional wellbeing is not optional. It is essential.
If you have been affected by the sudden and unexpected death of a child or young adult aged 25 or under, and you would like to enquire about a 2wish hosted debrief session for you, an individual or for your team contact support@2wish,org.uk or call 01443 853125
