KEMP for Kids has held its first residential weekend in Cleobury Mortimer for bereaved children and young people in Wyre Forest.

Twenty-three children, aged between six and 16, and their families attended the residential at the Pioneer Centre to help them learn to cope with their bereavement.

It was an opportunity for therapeutic work, sharing experiences and outdoor activities for building confidence and self-esteem.

Activities included caving, archery, zip-wires and bridge building, as well as craft making that encouraged children to focus on memories of a loved one.

There were also opportunities for parents and carers to share their experiences and concerns around supporting their children through their grief.

A team from Kemp Hospice as well as specially-trained volunteers helped to deliver the programme of events.

Jackie Turner, children’s and young people worker at Kemp, said: “The weekend was hugely beneficial to the children, young people, parents and carers.

“This would not have been possible without the local community who donated a huge amount of items that we needed including craft materials, candles, money for t-shirts, helium gas for balloons - the list is endless.

“It is heartbreaking to know that there is a demand for this service, but Kemp are here to help.

“We will be looking to run another weekend later in the year, but in the meantime, we’re continuing to run our normal bereavement services for children, young people and adults.”

Kemp for Kids, in association with The Shuttle, aims to raise £30,000 for bereavement services. The total raised so far is £25,378.18.