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Bereavement support
There isn’t a right or wrong way to grieve, and everyone’s experience is different. Many people find talking to friends and family and seeking support can help them through the more difficult times.
Asking for help
After a bereavement, friends and family may have told you to get in touch if you need anything. You may need support with practical things like cooking or shopping, or emotional support like having a chat over the phone or going out for a walk together. Whatever it is that you need help with, reach out to people if you can. More than likely, they will be happy to be able to do something helpful for you.
Support with mental health after a bereavement
Whilst grief itself is not a mental health problem, it can cause mental health problems for some of us. Also, if you have an existing mental health problem, you may find it harder to cope with grief and bereavement.
We are working with our partners Mind, SAMH and Inspire to help those affected by grief to access support for their mental health.
If you need support with your mental health or know someone that does:
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contact Mind for support in England and Wales on 0300 123 3393 (lines open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday), text: 86463 or email info@mind.org.uk
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contact SAMH for support in Scotland on 0344 800 0550 (lines open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, excluding bank holidays) or email info@samh.org.uk
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contact Inspire for support in Northern Ireland on 0289 032 8474 (lines open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday) or email hello@inspirewellbeing.org
Bereavement support for children
It can be very difficult for children to understand their own grief and tell adults how they're feeling when a loved one has died. We've worked together with charities to create resources which can help children work through these feelings and cope with loss.
More information on bereavement support available for children
Bereavement groups
Many find comfort in sharing experiences with people who have also been bereaved. Bereavement support groups can help you meet new people, enjoy good conversation and help you know that you’re not alone. Contact your local Co-op funeral home to see if they run a bereavement group you could go along to.
Bereavement charities
There are various charities and organisations that support people who are dealing with specific incidents of loss. They offer advice and information, and many have local groups set up for people to meet others who are going through similar experiences, helping to eliminate feelings of isolation and instead bringing assistance and comfort.
