A CHILDREN’S bereavement charity is expanding its service into East Lothian to reach more young people in need.

According to research, one in 29 children aged under 16 is impacted by the death of a parent or sibling – an average of one in every school class.

With the support of local community partners and funders, Richmond’s Hope opens a service in East Lothian next Thursday (October 10).

The service will operate Wednesdays and Thursdays from the Bleachingfield Centre in Dunbar.

READ MORE: Fears Dunbar's Bleachingfield Centre becoming an ‘empty ship’

Sam Harrison, regional bereavement co-ordinator at Richmond’s Hope, said: “There is huge pressure on support services for children who have suffered bereavement, and in some parts of Scotland there is no provision at all.

“We are so grateful for the funding and support from the local community and partners, whose commitment has been vital in getting the Dunbar-based service up and running.”

Richmond’s Hope’s bereavement support workers use therapeutic play and specialised grief activities to empower children and young people to tell the story of their grief and changes to their lives.

During sessions at Richmond’s Hope, children explore their memories, express and understand their feelings and develop coping strategies to build resilience.

Organisations including BeGreen Dunbar, East Lothian Educational Trust, Dunbar and East Linton Area Partnership and West Barns Community Council have provided funding to enable the service to be established.

Amie Steel, bereavement support worker, added: “Richmond’s Hope East Lothian will support 50 children and families each year from a community-based location, providing much-needed support closer to the child’s home, while also saving travel costs needed to access its service in Edinburgh.”

Anyone interested in making a referral or finding out more about Richmond’s Hope, can visit www.richmondshope.org.uk or call 0131 661 6818.