Forgotten Grievers: A Qualitative Study Exploring Experiences of Bereavement Support After Youth-Violence-Related Homicide

Serious youth violence is a major social concern in the United Kingdom. The current qualitative study explores the quality and consistency of support provided to individuals bereaved by youth-violence-related homicide. A qualitative study using naturalistic, semi-structured interviews was conducted with 24 participants, including members of the immediate and extended family and a peer. Interviews were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis to identify core themes related to support access and quality. Eight themes were developed and included: 1) The nature of homicide bereavement, 2) Experience of accessing support, 3) Gaps in support, 4) Victims supporting others, 5) The Role of the family, 6) Culture, impact and access, 7) Positive attitudes and experiences, 8) Reflections participating in bereavement research. Findings reveal significant gaps exist in the availability, accessibility and quality of support services, with particular emphasis on gaps in provision for siblings, extended family members, peers and young people.