SSAFA Forces Help

Bereaved Siblings Support Group (BSSG)

Welcome to the Support group for Bereaved Siblings (BSSG) case studies page.

Each year, we provide direct, practical assistance to those who serve and those who used to serve. Each year we help more than 50,000 different people. Here are some of their stories.

BSSG Stories

'I was 22 when Gordon died' - Pam's Story: I found it hard to speak to anyone about my feelings as I didn't want to cry in front of my mum or dad and upset them. . . . read more
Ryan's Story: Ryan Thornton was just 19 when his older brother Lee was killed in Iraq. . . . read more

Ryan's Story

Ryan Thornton was just 19 when his older brother Lee was killed in Iraq.
Gunner Lee Thornton, 22, was serving with the Royal Artillery when he was shot and fatally wounded by a sniper while out on patrol. His loss was devastating for the whole family and Ryan and his two younger brothers found it difficult to cope. Ryan is one of the founding members of the SSAFA Forces Help Support Group for Bereaved Siblings.

"When my brother died in Iraq I didn't speak to anyone about it. We were very close but I didn't speak to my mum and dad because I wanted to be there for them. But this group helped me - it helped to build my confidence. We meet up and talk about what we have been through and we understand what each other is thinking."