Crisis management plans in Swedish compulsory schools: Do they address death and grief?

Schools play a crucial role in supporting children through crises, including experiences of death and grief. Little is known about how death and grief are addressed in the crisis management plans (CMPs) of Swedish compulsory schools. This study aims to explore the structure and content of CMPs in Swedish compulsory schools, with a focus on death, grief, and bereavement support. 45 CMPs were analyzed using document analysis. Findings show a predominant focus on logistical and symbolic measures and rituals, while descriptions of psychosocial support and long-term follow-ups are limited. Most CMPs rely on outdated grief theories, and children's perspectives and participation in grief-related processes are rarely emphasized. This study highlights significant gaps in schools' grief preparedness and response, underscoring the need for updated guidelines that incorporate contemporary grief theories and long-term psychosocial support. Strengthening CMPs to meet practical and emotional needs enables schools to better support grieving students.