Royal Berks Charity is proud to fund a new Child Death Review Nurse Specialist position, ensuring that families facing the unimaginable loss of a child are no longer left to navigate the process alone.

Losing a child is every family’s worst nightmare – and in those moments of heartbreak, the last thing grieving parents should face is confusion and isolation. Thanks to the support of our generous donors, Royal Berks Charity has funded a vital new role within the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust to change that.

The Child Death Review Nurse Specialist now acts as a dedicated, compassionate guide for bereaved families, helping them understand complex medical and legal processes while ensuring they receive the emotional support they need.

Closing a Crucial Gap

Before this role was created, there was no consistent point of contact for families of children aged 5–18 who weren’t known to community nursing teams. Many families were left to navigate inquests, investigations, and safeguarding procedures on their own – often during the most traumatic period of their lives.

Now, the Child Death Review Nurse Specialist is transforming the experience for families by:

• Acting as a single, consistent contact throughout the review process.

• Helping families understand their rights and what to expect.

• Providing support during inquests and post-mortem procedures.

• Attending professional meetings and advocating on behalf of the family.

• Signposting to bereavement services and emotional support.

• Advising hospital staff and shaping best practice in child death procedures.

“A Lifeline During Our Darkest Days”

This role is already having a profound impact. One family described the specialist as their “anchor in a sea of uncertainty,” providing reassurance and clarity when everything else felt overwhelming.

“To have someone to guide and support families through this process can alleviate some of the stress and worries that come with losing a child,” said Hannah Titcombe, Clinical Nurse Specialist for Child Mortality and Bereavement. “It allows parents to focus on their grief and healing, rather than being lost in bureaucracy.”

Beyond working directly with families, the role also plays a key part in improving the Trust’s processes and training, ensuring that every child death is handled with professionalism, compassion, and dignity.

Funded by You

This much-needed support simply wouldn’t exist without donations from Royal Berks Charity supporters. Your generosity is directly improving care for bereaved families and making a tangible, lasting difference in their lives.

💛 Help us continue this vital work.
Your donation could ensure no family has to face this journey alone.