Many Travellers will know that health inequality is a big issue for our community. This means that as Travellers we have different experiences of health because of our social and living conditions – where we live, our education, employment and so on. It also means that Travellers are more likely to live shorter lives and die in greater numbers than the settled population.

• And this also sadly means we are more likely than settled people to experience a lot of loss and grieving for our loved ones.
• Losing someone who is important to us is very hard to go through. Sometimes it may feel very sudden and traumatic. If this has happened to you, you might feel numb, shocked, angry or upset.
• Grief can affect us negatively if we do not look after ourselves and each other. It can be especially hard for our young Travellers and have long term effects on them if they are not minded.
• As parents it is important to remember that young Travellers have also experienced a loss and to find ways to support them. Be prepared for your child to react in different ways. Young Travellers deal with grief in their own way. They might not cry at all, or they might cry a lot. They might want some time away from school or they might prefer to keep up their routine as usual.

• It is natural to try and protect your children from pain but try not to hide your feelings or emotions or feel that you cannot speak of the person who has passed away. It will help both you and your child to speak about your loved ones you have lost
• Be patient and give your child time
• Remember that grief is a journey and a lot of conversations may be needed
• Do not be afraid to talk about grief and don’t be afraid to say the wrong thing when talking about feelings.
• Let them know you care and you are willing to listen to them
• Know that what might work for you might not work for someone else. We all grieve differently