The isolation faced by mums and dads, whose children have a life-limiting condition, can be immense. Our support programs for Mums and Dads are an opportunity for relaxation, making connections and having fun – in a safe and supportive environment.

No two programs are the same with different activities and different parents (including both bereaved and non-bereaved parents).

At these support programs, friendships are formed and parent’s go home knowing that they are not alone in this unusual journey.

Our sibling support program provides an environment where siblings can have fun and connect with others and enhance their self-esteem, confidence and inner strength. 

Programs are held for both junior and senior siblings. and activities are varied and tailored to the age of those attending.

At Bear Cottage we often witness grandparents playing a special and significant role in their grandchild's life and care. 

Our Grandparents Retreat provides the opportunity for both bereaved and non-bereaved grandparents to have a program all about them, to meet others who share a similar experience and create memories and lasting connections. These Retreats are held offsite.

Bereavement program
The death of a child is devastating and can sometimes mean the end of many connections and relationships, leading to feelings of isolation on top of the grief and sadness being experienced. Supporting bereaved families is an essential aspect of care provided at Bear Cottage and our multi-faceted bereavement program supports each family member at various stages of grief. The program includes: 

• Remembering Day 
Our annual Remembering Day is a significant and powerful day and gives family and staff the opportunity to remember all those children that are no longer with us.

• Footprints in the Sand Bereavement Weekend
This weekend for bereaved families is held offsite. It provides the opportunity for families to have the chance to spend a weekend mixing with other families in similar situations. It is a weekend that is both fund and therapeutic and full of connections and shared experiences. Old friendships are re-ignited and new connections are made.

• Back to Bear Cottage BBQ
We have found over the years, for many families Bear Cottage is a special place and they love the opportunity to come back and visit. The Back to Bear Cottage BBQ is held once a year and gives families the chance to come back to Bear Cottage, to see and reconnect with the staff, but also to meet other families going through a similar experience.  Families share time, food and the familiarity of Bear Cottage. 

Events for bereaved and non-bereaved families
Families are invited to continue their connection with Bear Cottage for as long as they wish. They are always invited to special events such as our Superhero Party and Christmas Party and continue to receive our Bear Cottage newsletter "Cottage Capers" which allows families to remain connected and up to date with upcoming events and activities.

See more in Bereavement information handbook