'We want to remember our cheeky little boy': Charity's golf day to raise money for child bereavement support

A Leeds charity which supports families following the loss of a child will host a fun-filled golf day next month to raise money to support vital bereavement services in the region.

The charity golf day hosted by Elliot’s Footprint will take place at Waterton Golf Park, in Wakefield, on Friday, June 19, and feature team golf games, fun competitions, a three-course meal, and a raffle.

Elliot’s Footprint works to take the loneliness and frustration out of the systems and processes families face after losing a child, alongside campaigning for improved bereavement services.

The charity was first founded in 2014 by Andrea and John Kerslake following the sudden and unexpected death of their son Elliot at just two years old.

Inspired by Elliot’s "mischievous spirit”, the golf day, which starts at 9.30am will be filled with fun.

Claire Smith, Elliot’s Footprint Trustee, said: “The whole idea is that we make it as vibrant as possible.”

“The day itself is going to be about really recognising what Elliot’s Footprint does but utilising something that’s a bit more fun and bringing people together through connection.

“We’ve put that element of fun around it and that links back to the fun of Elliot.”

Bereavement services for child loss vary significantly across the UK due to factors such as levels of NHS and council funding, local charity coverage, and waiting times.

Claire said Elliot’s Footprint provides vital support to grieving families experiencing “the worst period of their lives” which otherwise would not be there.

Claire said: “A family in Leeds and the surrounding areas can be in quite an isolated position as they try to navigate all the different procedures and processes that they have to go through while also dealing with their grief.

“Without that support, families are quite alone at such a distressing time.”

Money raised from the charity golf day will be used to fund bereavement support workers, provide bereavement training to key core professionals, and conduct “much-needed” research into Sudden and Unexpected Death in Childhood (SUDIC).

For Claire, the ultimate focus of the golf day is to raise more awareness and funds so Elliot’s Footprint’s work can continue, and to remember Elliot for the cheeky young boy he was.

Claire said: “It’s about coming along, having fun, enjoying a round of golf with an amazing meal at the end, and meeting other people who are passionate about a really important charity.

“It’s a real opportunity to be part of something really special and make a difference in Leeds.”

Elliot’s Footprint’s charity golf day costs £400 per team of four with tickets prices including tee times, a three-course meal, and a bottle of wine.

To find out more about Elliot’s Footprint and to book your ticket, visit the Elliot’s Footprint website.