Increasingly, social media is being used as a platform for memorials and messages of condolence. Some bereaved pupils find social media a source of comfort as they can:

• View messages of condolence.
• Find and access support.
• Use it as a forum to share special memories of the person who died.
• Find others who have had similar experiences.

This can be very positive but needs careful monitoring to ensure that it is used appropriately and sensitively. The longevity of the software may mean that these precious messages may not be permanently available.

It is important for schools to refer to their online safety policies as a bereaved pupil may be vulnerable to risks online, such as cyber-bullying, grooming or exploitation.