Forgotten grievers: What services can learn from families bereaved by youth-violence-related homicide

Serious youth violence is a significant social concern in the United Kingdom. This qualitative study explores the reported recommendations for the offer of care for families and members of the wider social network who have been bereaved by youth-violence-related homicide. This UK-based study used naturalistic, semi-structured interviews with 24 participants, including immediate and extended family and one peer. The study was initiated and co-produced with an expert by experience. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to identify recommendations for an improved support model. Our results coalesced around four main findings: (1) Need for timely support, (2) Importance of responsive, flexibly tailored help, (3) Importance of accessibility, (4) Specific ideas around the format and structure of help. There was an emphasis on support being more joined up, potentially through the establishment of an integrated keyworker role. Participants described the wish for warm, empathic, and culturally sensitive support provided by workers with specialist training.