Introduction
The emotional needs of people with learning disabilities are often neglected (Arthur 2003), particularly in relation to death, dying and bereavement. In recognition of this, a series of leaflets have been developed in conjunction with this booklet to highlight the needs of these bereaved people. They were written and designed by a group of professionals (from varied backgrounds), carers personal and professional) and people with a learning disability. This booklet has been designed specifically for those professionals who support people with learning disability from within a variety of caring contexts. The aims of this booklet are to:

• Raise the profile of the bereavement support needs of people with learning disabilities;

• Acknowledge the varied impact that death may generate;

• Promote understanding about the theoretical concepts of grief;

• Focus upon the practical approaches which may be used to support people in emotional distress;

• Encourage formal and informal carers to be creative when supporting the bereaved;

• Ensure that a consistency of support is available to all people with learning disability regardless of where they live in North Staffordshire.

This booklet was not developed to substitute education and training around this sensitive topic, but to complement it.

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