Initial analysis of a community-based bereavement programme.

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It is well evidenced that childhood bereavement has a negative impact upon a range of psychological and educational outcomes. This article describes a service evaluation of the national child bereavement charity, Winston’s Wish SWITCH programme. SWITCH is a community outreach bereavement programme targeted at children that are at risk of antisocial and self-destructive behaviour. A preliminary evaluation of baseline to follow up of parent (n=31) and young person (n=96) Strength and Difficulties (SDQ) data suggests that the programme contributes to a positive impact upon emotional distress, relationships, and concentration. Further, more robust evaluation needs to be conducted to understand the long-term implications of the programme on vulnerable young people.