Some children cope better than others, research suggests

The Joseph Rowntree Foundation report described support as "patchy and highly variable in quantity and content", particularly in disadvantaged areas.

It suggested "death and bereavement" education, peer support and counselling could be made available.

Research suggests between 4% and 7% of young people lose a parent before the age of 16, the report's authors said.

Jane Ribbens McCarthy of the Open University and Julie Jessop of Cambridge University said a similar proportion experience the death of a sibling - most often the loss of a baby brother or sister.

The notion that children and young people will simply 'get over it' can be especially unhelpful Jane Ribbens McCarthy Report author 'I'm angry with everything'

However, one survey found that more than nine out of 10 children and young people have experienced the death of someone "close" or "significant" to them.

This could include grandparents, friends and even pets.

Other research suggests that large numbers of bereaved young people never talk to anyone about their experiences, with a risk of growing social isolation.

Variety of support

Dr Ribbens McCarthy said: "Although many find ways of their own to cope, without the need for 'expert' help, the evidence suggests that the loss of someone close to them often holds long-term significance in their lives.

"The notion that children and young people will simply 'get over it' can be especially unhelpful."

The report called for a variety of support services to be available, including family-based programmes and provision for bereavement in particular circumstances, such as sudden, accidental death or suicide.

However, Dr Ribbens McCarthy acknowledged that people have different responses to grief and may not welcome or need "expert" advice.

Young people who experience several bereavements, or other losses, were at increased risk of long-term emotional and social problems, the report said.

Harmful implications

The chances of multiple losses were linked to deprivation and living in a disadvantaged area.

"Bereavement can have particularly harmful implications for young people who are already vulnerable or living in disadvantaged circumstances," Dr Ribbens McCarthy said.

"The many difficulties in their lives put them at particular risk of poor mental health and other problems following their loss."

The study also said that while many bereavements are deeply upsetting and can have sustained, adverse effects on children, not all the consequences are necessarily negative.