Celebrations for child bereavement charity who win Plain English Award for military publication

Winston’s Wish, the leading childhood bereavement charity, is celebrating after being awarded a ‘good’ Plain English Award for three of their publications, one of which was for their military publication The family has been informed. This prestigious award recognises organisations and individuals who have genuinely made an effort to present themselves using clear and concise English in their documents. Winston’s Wish has received this award to acknowledge the work that they have put in to producing their publications in plain English.

Jennie Eley at The Plain English Awards said: “The family has been informed has been written to help parents and professionals deal with the aftermath of a death and it is written in a clear, unambiguous language and style. Although dealing with an emotive subject, the guide is straightforward, factual and doesn’t shy away from the awkward questions and situations that carers of bereaved children may have to deal with. Although dealing with a difficult subject, the book is well designed, bright and contains excellent photographs. This publication has been recommended to us by professionals who use the material in the course of their work and also Help for Heroes who funded the publication.”

Winston’s Wish supports families in the Armed Forces through a specialist child bereavement programme in partnership with Armed Forces charity Help for Heroes. Based on years of clinical and practical experience, The family has been informed aims to guide and complement efforts of parents, carers, teachers and other professionals as well as offer practical ideas and support.

The book provides an overview of the process and experiences involved and gives insight to relatives, friends and schools who might be less familiar with the unique challenges that military families face. It also suggests practical activities for families as they begin to make sense of what has happened and explore ways in which the family can learn to cope and move forward.

“I was four and a half years old when my father was killed in active service, so I know only too well how Winston’s Wish helps those who have lost loved ones,” said Bryn Parry, Co-Founder of Help for Heroes. “You never forget losing a parent but, in time and with the right support, life does get better. Help for Heroes is honoured to have supported this superb book and hopes that it will provide comfort and advice.”

Catherine Ind, Chief Executive at Winston’s Wish is absolutely delighted with the award and comments: “At Winston’s Wish we aim to ensure that all bereaved children, young people and their families receive the support they need through one of the most difficult experiences a child will ever have to face. The family has been informed has been created to provide help and advice to support a child and their family and we are completely thrilled that we have won a Plain English Award for it. We are also honoured to have the excellent support from many individuals and organisations, especially Help for Heroes who have been instrumental in supporting the publication. Our certificate will be displayed in pride of place!”

To recognise the specialist requirements of those bereaved through conflict, Winston’s Wish also offers a full package of support using tried and tested methodologies to provide reassurance to the surviving family members, and the wider military community. To make direct contact with Winston’s Wish please call the National Helpline on 08452 03 04 05 or visit www.winstonswish.co.uk.

More information about The Plain English Awards here.  To purchase The family has been informed, priced at £6.95 please visit our online shop.