Planning a funeral or memorial for your child is one of the most difficult times in your life. With the help of families who have been through the funeral planning process, those working in funeral care and health professionals we have prepared this booklet to guide and support you as you farewell your child in a way that is special, comforting, and meaningful.
“Nothing can truly prepare you for this and nothing you do will ever be enough in the farewell journey but the one thing I think helps me years later is that I put my heart and soul into it and created memories that I can carry with me forever.”
Taking the time to think and reflect before decisions are made, is so important. As you begin to plan your child’s funeral or memorial keep in mind that there is no right or wrong way to say goodbye. It needs to be your way and what feels best for you, your child, and your family. There is no need to rush through this process. You are in control, and whenever you feel ready, your funeral director will be there to offer support and answer any questions you may have.
“It will never be okay to have to say goodbye to your child and plan their funeral but when I thought about it as planning their celebration of life – it helped me get through.”
Whilst we have tried to put together a comprehensive information booklet to help you arrange a funeral or memorial for your child, there may be other questions you think of. Consider which person is best to ask – your funeral director, your chosen celebrant, health professionals, family or friends.
Grief isn’t something that you get through or you get over. If you need support or just someone to talk to in the coming days and months connect with the palliative or hospice team involved in your child’s care.
Click here to download the resource
Reading this booklet and confronting planning a funeral for your child will not be easy. It may be helpful to reach out to trusted family and friends, a family doctor, counsellor, social worker or health care team to support you.
Contacting a Funeral Director can be overwhelming and difficult, to support you with this initial step we have developed a video where you can learn more about how a Funeral Director can support you.
We recognise and acknowledge those who are working through Sorry Business, Sad News, grief and bereavement and offer our condolences and support.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are advised that this website may contain images, videos and voices of people who have passed on. Some of the content and topics covered might also cause distress. You are welcome here, and we want you to feel safe and take care.
If you find that you need support please reach out to 13YARN on 13 92 76, Grief Australia, Grief Line on 1300 845 745, or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Palliative Care Australia is located in Canberra. We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the surrounding land and waters, the Ngunnawal and Ngambri Peoples and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We extend that same respect and acknowledge the continuing cultures and contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples across Australia.
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