Memory Boxes, Bereavement Services
8 MAY 2025
York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity has funded memory boxes which are offered to children following the death of a significant person within their lives.
The aim of the memory boxes is to provide a starting place for a child and their family or friends to begin grieving while protecting cherished memories.
There are boxes available for younger and older children. There are two books aimed at the different ages and help explain grief and how to cope with it at an age-appropriate level.
The boxes contain two teddies, tealight candles, photo keyrings, art materials, scrap book, and also a pouch should children wanted to keep a lock of hair from their loved one. In addition to these items, the children can personalise their box contents with perhaps favourite perfumes, photos, or other items of sentimental value.
The idea behind two teddies was the child keeps one and the other teddy remains with their loved one.
Michelle Crossland, Bereavement Officer, explained “The books help guide adults in talking to children, helping them to engage in activities coping with grief and eventually the box will become a private item for the child to add to throughout their life. “
We are grateful to York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity for funding the memory boxes.
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