Following the loss of a loved one, whether it be a Mother, Father, Sister or Brother, children and young people are left with a mixture of emotions and feelings. They are often left devastated, feeling isolated, confused and unable to communicate with their friends and family causing them to bottle up their feelings. Their loss can sometimes be overshadowed by the loss of other family members who
are finding it hard to keep themselves together without the added grief of a child or young person. That's where OLLY is here to help. Our Lost Love Years provides children and young people with a source of support and a range of activities designed to help them re-gain the fun in their lives and re-establish friendships while making new ones at the same time. Some of our activities include...
Play activities - allowing children and young people to be themselves again and play normally. Art & Design Sessions - encouraging self expression using organised group sessions, with positive feedback given on the results of the effort. Dramatisation Workshops - this can be very important to those involved, allowing for particular scenarios to be played out and expressed in a supportive and understanding environment. Team Building (Sports) - this helps to both reinforce the bonds and friendships made by children and young people and is also enjoyable. Music/Dance Sessions - another way in for the group to express themselves and have fun together. Story Telling Sessions - Informal sessions that allow the communication of feelings and particular experiences which are affecting the group and individually. Baking and Food Preparation - fun activity that can be a good distraction from the intense grief being experienced and ultimately rewarding for the group. Trips Out - organised activity that the group expresses an interest in, examples include; cinema, bowling, football and eating out to provide a change of scene. We are looking to organise holidays for the children and their families, although this is funding dependant. All our activities are designed to provide a real positive benefit and to help children express themselves and to build back their self esteem and confidence. We also provide 1-2-1 support from people (including other young people) who have experienced similar feelings to their own. If you have a child that could benefit from any of our services please give us a call on 01512072176 or send us email our lovely founder Jean, at [email protected]. How it all began...
Chantel Taylor was tragically murdered aged 27. Her son Joseph and his siblings were left distraught and feeling unable to talk about the loss of their mum to their relatives for fear of causing further upset. They tried to carry on as normal but found it increasing difficult. Joseph spoke out to his nan Jean Taylor and asked for a place where children who have experienced the loss a loved one due to acts of murder or violence could come together and talk with the same understanding and feelings. OLLY now has over 60 children using our service and we hope to reach out to more children in need every day.
