Ethos & Values

Our vision is that the grief experienced by children and young people in Ireland, following a significant loss in their lives through bereavement, parental separation or divorce, is recognised and that they are offered the understanding and support necessary to foster emotional well-being.

Core Values

• Grief and loss are normal and natural
• Grief and loss – a personal, individual journey different for every child and young person
• The dignity of each individual’s grief journey is at all times respected
• Participants are not approached directly to avail of the service – the service is offered in local communities
• Children and young people are best supported within the family. Rainbows supports families at a time of loss
• Children and young people are active, resilient participants in their own lives
• Grief and loss can have a profound impact
• Grief needs to be acknowledged and supported, not denied, buried or ignored
• The emotional health and wellbeing of children and young people is fundamental to their future mental health and well being
• Rainbows Ireland recognises the value of group support for children and young people, providing a process of normalisation and engagement with peers in similar situations