Hi I'm Jack. When I was 4, my mum was admitted to hospital, by the time I was 5 she had died. After this I went to stay with my nana and granddad. Feeling very confused and scared about what had happened, I was referred to Richmonds Hope 2 years later at age 7. Having space with my support worker allowed me to do activities to remember my mum and help my understanding. Following my first lot of 1-2-1 sessions, I was always about in the summer play schemes, taking part in family days, going on a Hopscotch holiday and the Christmas Eve remembrance services.

When I was 11, I felt I needed some more support, I was finding it hard to cope. So, I returned to do work on my feelings and my understanding of how my mum had died. This helped me to express my emotions and to manage anniversaries and birthdays better. After these 1-2-1s I was always around, popping in just to say hello and have a catch up, I always felt like I was welcome.

I started coming to the teen group as a young volunteer and the group helped because it let me see that other people have gone through similar situations. Talking to other people my own age helped me to share my own story. Ive now got a job as nursery support worker, but I still keep in touch with everybody.

Even though Im older, I always know that Ive got someone to talk to at Richmonds Hope. Without them I dont know where Id be, if Id be able to cope or go to my mums grave to take flowers up. Richmond's Hope have helped me to remember the best memories and good times, cope with my feelings and feel positive about my future.

I want to thank you, too, 'cos I know how much your support and generosity means to other bereaved children and young people - like me.

Jack