This September, Alfie’s Squad launches in Sheffield with a new peer-support hub for children and young people bereaved by suicide.

Thanks to the partnership with Sheffield United Community Foundation, free weekly support sessions will be delivered for children, young people and their families affected by the suicide of a loved one.

The new Sheffield hub marks a significant milestone for Alfie’s Squad. It will become our third permanent location and the first hub outside the North West.

Alfie’s Squad was founded following the experience of Alfie, who was just eight years old when his dad died by suicide in 2017. After being unable to access suitable support, Alfie wanted to create something for other children and young people facing the same devastating loss. Following years of fundraising and awareness-raising, Alfie and his mum, Allison, launched Alfie’s Squad in 2023 with just six young members.

In the last year over 60 families were supported through in-person and online peer-support sessions, as well keeping in touch with the team for advice and support. Alfie’s Squad provides the UK’s only face-to-face peer-support groups specifically for children, young people and families bereaved by suicide.

The weekly sessions are designed to help children and young people build confidence, form friendships, reduce isolation and feel understood. Alongside the children and young people’s group, support is also available for parents and carers.

Allison Furlong, CEO of Alfie’s Squad, said,

“We’ve worked extremely hard to get this far with Alfie’s Squad and are beyond proud to be opening a third hub in partnership with our friends at Sheffield United Community Foundation.

“Suicide has a ripple effect across families and communities, but children and young people are often forgotten about. This new hub means even more families will be able to access sessions focused on friendship, creativity and shared experience, helping children and young people grow through grief and feel less alone.”

The expansion has also been supported by a Sheffield family currently accessing Alfie’s Squad’s online programme, who are keen to help bring this support closer to families locally.

Chris Bailey, CEO of Sheffield United Community Foundation, added,

“We’re proud to be partnering with Alfie’s Squad to bring this vital service to Sheffield and support children, young people and families affected by suicide bereavement.

 

“At Sheffield United Community Foundation, we believe everyone should have access to the support they need to overcome life’s challenges, and we know the impact that losing a loved one to suicide can have on young people and those around them. By working together, we can provide a safe, welcoming space where families feel understood, connected and supported.

 

“We’re looking forward to helping Alfie’s Squad reach even more local children and young people, ensuring that no one has to face their grief alone.”

Weekly sessions for children and young people aged 6–17 will begin in September at the Blades Family Hub at Bramell Lane in Sheffield.

Please note support is available by referral only.

Families can self-refer, and referrals can also be made by professionals working with children, young people and families affected by suicide bereavement.

To make a referral or find out more, visit Support for children and young people in Sheffield

Alfie’s Squad CEO, Allison Furlong is pictured with David Bly, Chief Operating Officer at Sheffield United Community Foundation