Harry’s Rainbow supports bereaved children and young adults through a range of groups, activities and practical help; and Family Liaison Officers Sarah Page and Sam Williams are on hand to ensure those in need of the charity’s services know what is available and how to access it.
The charity is open to children from across Milton Keynes and the surrounding areas who have lost a parent or sibling. It was founded 15 years ago by Odette Mould, who lost her own son, Harry, when he was just five years old. After Harry’s death, Odette and her husband Lee saw a need when looking for help for their daughter and Harry’s twin sister, Jessica, and decided to set up Harry’s Rainbow.
Since it was established, the charity has grown to include support groups for children of all ages – from Rainbow Group for children up to 11 years, the Youth Group for 11 to 18-year-olds, and a Young Adult for anyone up to 25 who still needs support. It also organises an outing each summer and winter, and two parties a year, and has a caravan retreat at Camber Sands where families can stay free of charge, with Harry’s Rainbow contributing towards food and transport costs.
Each child is also given a book and a memory box. The box includes a notebook, pen or pencil, tissues and a specially designed rainbow wish bracelet and knitted bear that can be used as a comfort or worry bear. The box is large enough to store small, treasured items and photographs.
Sarah explained: “Sam and I get involved from the first registration to help families understand what is available. It doesn’t matter how long it is after the loss has occurred, families are always welcome to call upon Harry’s Rainbow.
“There are times when a young child loses a parent, for instance, and the close family support is all they need at first. Then they reach an age, maybe in the teenage years, where they are feeling the loss in different ways, understanding more about the gap in their lives. They are welcome to register with Harry’s Rainbow whenever they or their families feel it will be helpful.”
Monthly groups give children time with other youngsters who are going through similar challenges in their lives. Through the groups, and through trips out to the likes of Woburn Safari Park or the pantomime, both parents and children are able to develop close bonds with others in the group.
Sam said: “A day out can be a major thing for a parent that is grieving the loss of a partner or child, and by taking all the organisation away, and giving them the chance to have a day out without worrying about the cost, or transport, Harry’s Rainbow can make all the difference to that family having a lovely day.
“And because we go in a group, with Harry’s Rainbow wristbands, parents feel comfortable speaking to other parents they know are going through something similar and they often find some comfort and support through that.
“We extended the age limit to 25 because, sometimes, those first few years of adulthood without a parent can be tough for a young person; and we also have a principle of never asking anyone to leave Harry’s Rainbow. Some young adults who’ve been supported by us end up volunteering, and the support they can offer is invaluable.
“Our role is simply to make sure those who need the charity feel comfortable asking for support, that they know this is a safe space for them and to support them throughout the time they are with us.”
If you or anyone you know would like to register for support, fill out the registration form.
To find out more about Harry’s Rainbow visit their website or call 01908 061676
