Two childhood bereavement charities backed by Prince William have finalised their merger a year after announcing their intention to join forces.
This week, Winston’s Wish, founded in 1992, and Child Bereavement UK, established in 1994, announced they are now one unified organisation.
Known as Child Bereavement UK, the new charity said the merger “reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that no child, young person or parent has to face grief alone”.
Both organisations said that while they joined forces, the values and qualities that have defined them will remain unchanged.
“Families can continue to expect the same compassionate, expert and personalised support they’ve always received,” they said.
“Too often, grief remains misunderstood, leaving individuals feeling isolated at the most difficult times in their lives.
“The merged charity aims to change this by not only expanding its services but also amplifying the voices of those it supports.”
Fergus Crow, chief executive of the new charity and former CEO of Winston’s Wish, said: “By bringing Winston’s Wish and Child Bereavement UK together, we’re combining our strengths so we can reach more grieving families and help people find hope as they rebuild their lives.”
He added: “We know that grief can feel like the loneliest place, especially when it isn’t fully understood.
“That’s why we’re committed to speaking up, working alongside those we support, and helping to create a kinder society where every grieving child and parent is given the space, time and understanding they need.”
Prior to the merger, the former Child Bereavement UK charity recorded a total income of £3.88m in the year to August 2023 and employed 88 people.
Meanwhile, Winston’s Wish recorded an income of £2.53m in the year to March 2024 and employed 49 members of staff.
