‘Sudden’ is a project run by Brake, national road safety charity, that helps people who have been bereaved by any kind of sudden death. And now, their essential ‘Someone Has Died Suddenly’ children’s book is available as a free of charge e-book.

Jack Kushner, Victim Support Events and Marketing Officer at Brake says: “A sudden bereavement can have a traumatic impact on children and young people. It is therefore vital that children are provided with resources, which allow them to express their feelings following the shock of a sudden death.”

Both the physical copy of the book and its accompanying guide, plus the e-book, are available for free to families and professionals. The e-book can be accessed on any kindle, iPad or other e-reading device, and is available to download from Brake’s online shop.

The book was produced in collaboration with bereavement experts and organisations. It was designed to be used by parents and carers to help children cope with a sudden bereavement.

“With research showing that up to 92% of people under the age of 16 have experienced a significant bereavement,” explains Kushner, “Brake is proud to be able to provide this essential, free of charge resource. We would encourage any adult responsible for supporting bereaved children to order a free of charge copy of this book.”

Readers of the colourfully illustrated text follow the story of Amy and Tom, two children who have been suddenly bereaved. Included within the text are sections covering varying emotional reactions children may experience following a sudden loss, and practical information on death, grief and the processes that follow a bereavement.

An interactive section is also included which contains a number of activities that bereaved children and their adult carers can complete together. Crucially, the book is also accompanied by a supporting guide with advice for parents, teachers and support workers on how best to use the book to help suddenly bereaved children.

For further information, and to order free of charge copies of the book, please visit Brake’s online shop or email jkushner@brake.org.uk