Each and every one of us comes from a culture - what is minority in one setting is majority in another. Not only do we come from a national culture and a religious culture, but a family culture as well.

The bereaved family may be agnostic or atheist, Catholic or Church of England, Muslim or Jewish, Hindu or Sikh. Each person's belief is personal and we all have our own traditions that need to be respected and honoured. Your own cultural traditions may be quite different from those of the family and it is best to assume nothing and when in doubt, ask.

Enquire about the family's beliefs, what they need and what may be available. People who never go to church may be comforted by seeing the hospital or hospice chaplain who can offer a blessing. Others who have a faith may choose to have nothing to do with a God who they feel has not heard their prayers. Resist any need to talk about your own beliefs.

Always treat parents as individuals and enable them to grieve in their own way.

For further informatuion see Best Practice Guidance and Additional Information.