Bereavement Policy

Voxly Tuition | Maths, English & Science Tuition Centre

This policy was formally adopted by the Management of Voxly Tuition on 25th June 2026. It will be reviewed annually by the management team and will remain in effect unless and until the Management notifies the Institute of any amendments.

This document should be read in conjunction with our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy and Grievance Resolution Policy and Procedures.

Name Designation Date and signature
Miss. Hadiya NaveedDirector

 

Hadiya 24-06-2026

Mr. Ali NaveedSetting Manager

 

Ali Naveed 24-06-2026

Ms. Kulsom KhanSupervisorK Khan 24-06-2026

Voxly Tuition Bereavement Policy:

Introduction

At Voxly Tuition, we recognise the importance of providing compassionate support to children, families, and staff during and after bereavement. The way in which children and young people are supported when someone significant in their lives dies has a profound impact on their future ability to cope with life’s challenges.

Our caring and supportive institute environment plays a key role in this process. We acknowledge that every situation is unique and requires careful handling, with the wishes of the pupil and their family being of paramount importance.

This policy is not prescriptive; different strategies and procedures may be necessary depending on the circumstances. These must take into account:

  • The age of the pupils concerned,
  • The relationship the bereaved had with the deceased,
  • The specific context in which the bereavement occurred.

Throughout this policy, references to “the family” refer to the family of the deceased individual. Their wishes will always be considered when implementing any actions outlined in this policy.

Rationale

Every 22 minutes in the UK, a parent of dependent children dies, leaving approximately 41,000 bereaved children each year. Many more children are bereaved of a grandparent, sibling, friend, or other significant person. Sadly, around 12,000 children die in the UK annually.

Within our institute, there will almost always be some recently bereaved children struggling with their own situation. On occasion, the entire institute may be impacted by the death of a member of staff or a pupil.

While we hope not to encounter such circumstances, statistical reality makes it essential to have a Bereavement Policy in place. This allows us to be proactive rather than reactive when responding to these sensitive situations.

For some children—and staff—empathic understanding within the familiar and secure surroundings of the Tuition Centre may be all the bereavement support they require. However, where the impact of grief is more complex, referral to specialist support may be considered.

Roles and Responsibilities

Role of the Head of Department / Department Supervisor

  • To have overall responsibility for the implementation of this policy.
  • To act as the first point of contact for the family and child concerned.
  • To inform all staff and arrange for children to be informed appropriately, in line with the family’s wishes.
  • To keep management fully informed and up to date as appropriate.

Role of Tutoring Staff

  • To support the Head of Department in carrying out the procedures outlined in this policy.
  • To support staff, children, and parents following a death, as directed by the Head of Department.
  • To assist other staff members with communicating the news of a death.

Vulnerable Groups

Particular attention should be given to:

  • Children who had a long-term and/or close relationship with the deceased.
  • Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
  • Children who struggle to manage their emotions or behaviour.

The First Few Days

As far as possible, it is best to maintain minimal disruption to the institute timetable. Institute life should continue as normally as possible, but with flexibility where needed.

  • If a Tutor has died, their class will be covered by another Tutor from within the Tuition Centre—someone the children know well and feel comfortable with.
  • Many bereaved children find returning to the institute as soon as possible a welcome refuge of normality after the emotional chaos at home. Their return should be as low-key and fuss-free as possible.
  • While a bereaved child will require significant support, institute life should, as far as possible, continue as normal.
  • bereaved member of staff should be supported with an appropriate amount of compassionate leave.

Support for Pupils and Staff

In supporting both the bereaved child and other pupils, staff will act sensitively at all times, seeking advice from the Head of Department and the families involved when necessary.

For Pupils

  • The class teacher will be the first line of support for the child.
  • If additional support away from the classroom is needed, this will be provided. For example, if a child finds it difficult to stay in the classroom when upset, a suitable quiet space may be identified where they can go with a trusted adult.
  • The Tuition Centre and families must work together to note any changes in behaviour.

Where necessary, counselling from external agencies may be sought.

Special Consideration

Children and young people bereaved through suicide or violent death are likely to require skilled professional help. However, the informal support of familiar adults remains vital.

For Staff

Supporting a bereaved child is emotionally demanding for staff. Informal support between colleagues is essential. Opportunities to discuss feelings and reactions with colleagues are necessary and encouraged.

Support and counselling are available to any member of staff and can be arranged through the Head of Department or Management.

When the Tuition Centre Is Closed

If a death occurs when the Tuition Centre is closed, we will endeavour to follow the points outlined above sensitively, while always considering the wishes of the family. Communication with the family is vital.

Careful consideration will be given to:

    • How the news of the death is communicated,
    • By what medium (especially when face-to-face contact with pupils, staff, and the institute is not possible).