Bereavement in paediatric oncology: programme evaluation

The death of a child from cancer is a devastating event with long-term psychological and social consequences for parents. While bereavement support is increasingly recognised as a standard of care in paediatric oncology, structured programmes remain limited and heterogeneous.

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of bereaved parents of paediatric oncology patients treated at our institution. A structured questionnaire, developed by a multidisciplinary team, explored experiences with bereavement initiatives and preferences for supportive activities.

Of 156 questionnaires distributed, 74 were returned (47% response rate). Mothers completed 51% of the surveys, fathers 35% and both parents jointly 14%. Although 70% of parents reported no perceived need for formal bereavement support, 56% found volunteer activities and 62% ongoing contact with healthcare staff to be helpful. Preferred support options included counselling with a psychologist (38%), commemorative ceremonies (34%), peer groups (30%) and self-help groups (26%). Parents bereaved for more than 3 years expressed greater interest in peer meetings and contact with clinicians. No significant gender differences were observed.

Parental bereavement needs are frequently underestimated and may extend beyond traditional counselling. A proactive and diversified model-integrating psychological care, peer mentorship and structured contact with healthcare teams-should be systematically offered to improve adaptation and reduce isolation among bereaved parents.