National Bereaved Parents Day – 3rd July 2026

“This Is My Place” – Honouring Love That Never Ends

For any parent, the loss of a child is unimaginable.

There are no words that can make that loss easier, no timetable for grief and no right or wrong way to remember a son or daughter. That is why National Bereaved Parents Day, held each year on 3rd July, is such an important day. It shines a light on bereaved parents, acknowledges their grief and reminds them that they are not alone.

This year’s theme is “This Is My Place.”

You can find out more about National Bereaved Parents Day and this year’s campaign by visiting the A Child of Mine website.

At first glance, you might think that means a physical place – perhaps a favourite walk, a bench overlooking the sea, a family garden or somewhere filled with precious memories. And for many parents, it does.

But “place” can mean so much more.

It might be the place where you feel closest to your child. It could be a support group where you found understanding, a quiet moment at home or even a memory that brings comfort when you need it most.

For some, that place exists only in their heart.

Every Journey Through Grief Is Different

One of the most important messages behind National Bereaved Parents Day is that there is no single way to grieve.

Some parents want to talk about their child every day. Others find comfort in quiet reflection. Some celebrate birthdays and anniversaries with family and friends, while others prefer to remember those moments privately.

However grief is expressed, it is valid.

Love doesn’t stop because someone has died. It simply changes the way we carry it.

Remembering a Life

As a celebrant, I have the privilege of listening to people’s stories and helping families celebrate the lives of those they love.

Although much of my work centres on funeral ceremonies, I know that remembrance doesn’t end on the day of the funeral. For many families, remembering someone becomes part of everyday life.

A favourite song on the radio.
A familiar scent.
A special place.
A treasured photograph.

Sometimes the smallest moments can bring the biggest memories.

Holding Space for Bereaved Parents

Today is an opportunity for all of us to pause and recognise the strength of bereaved parents.

We may not fully understand their journey, but we can acknowledge it with kindness, compassion and understanding.

If you know someone who has lost a child, don’t be afraid to say their child’s name. Share a memory, send a message or simply let them know you’re thinking of them.

Often, it’s those small gestures that mean the most.

A Place That Will Always Be Theirs

This year’s theme reminds us that every bereaved parent has a place where love lives on.

Whether it’s somewhere they visit, somewhere they remember or somewhere they carry within them, it deserves to be honoured.

Today, I hold every bereaved parent in my thoughts and send love to those remembering a much-loved child.

---

Helen Borking Celebrant
‘The right words, when they matter the most’