In December we took delivery of 30 beautifully crafted quilts kindly donated by the quilters of Project Linus UK.
The first of our quilts were given out at a group we ran for children who are coping with the death of a sibling. This was the first time we had facilitated a group of this type, and we felt it proved to be very beneficial for all the children who participated. It was an emotive experience for the children, who were ranged from 9 to 14 years old, but they also had fun. They engaged with each other well, and showed great empathy to one another.
As a group the children talked about their lives now, how they feel lonely, and miss their siblings, especially at this perceived family orientated time of year, Christmas. They often don’t want to talk to their parents about how they are feeling and none of them have friends in a similar situation with whom they could share experiences and coping methods with.
As we brought the session to an end, we showed them the quilts and asked them to choose one, maybe in their sibling’s favourite colour, or with a pattern or design which reminded them of their brother or sister. It was pleasing that they actually took quite a long time to make the right choice as we think they will be able to use these quilts to wrap around them, or lie under, when they feel sad or overwhelmed by their emotions and thoughts. Not only will they provide physical warmth but emotional warmth as they have a connection with their brother or sister.
It was obvious that the quilts have been made with such love and attention to detail, so it felt right that they were given to these children who are in desperate need of kindness and care. We look forward to a continued relationship with Project Linus UK, being able to gift quilts to children and young people who we support through our work.
For more information about Project Linus visit Project Linus UK | Project Linus UK is a volunteer organisation.
