BEREAVED children took part in a special activity camp organised by Bromsgrove’s Primrose Hospice and Kemp Hospice in Kidderminster, writes Ryan Smith.
Five of the boys and girls who attended the event last month are currently being supported by the Primrose Hospice after losing a parent, sibling or close family member.
The 17 youngsters, all aged between seven and 14, took part in a number of activities, including a night walk along the Malvern Hills and a musical jungle rave at Outdoor Elements in Malvern.
A separate camp was held for the adults who took part in outdoor and therapeutic activities and a memorial service took place with the children’s families at the end of the weekend.
Each person placed a leaf on a memory tree to commemorate their lost loved one.
The camps were funded by the hospice with children and parents at the Primrose granted free entry.
Lisa Rodenhurst, a children and young people’s practitioner at the hospice, said: “For me camp is about giving a positive experience to our children and young people.
“I feel very privileged to be part of this experience and often leave camp feeling humbled by the children’s strength, courage and determination.”
Sharon Workman, also a children and young people’s practitioner at the hospice, added: “Camp is both exhilarating and exhausting and for me it is a privilege to spend time in the company of such wonderful children and young people.
“They share stories about their experiences of bereavement, remember their loved ones with sadness but also with hope and joy.
“It is a weekend filled with life, love and friendships.”
