3.3 Identify sources of external support available for those who are grieving

This guide will help you answer 3.3 Identify sources of external support available for those who are grieving.

Grieving is a natural response when you lose someone or something you love. It can be an intensely personal and emotional experience. External support plays an essential role in helping individuals cope and find meaning through this difficult period. Let’s explore the various sources of external support available to people who are grieving.

Professional Support Services

Counsellors and Psychotherapists

• Role: Counsellors and psychotherapists provide a safe space to explore feelings, thoughts, and emotions associated with grief.
• Method: They use techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help people process their loss.
• Access: Typically available through the NHS, private practices, or charitable organisations.

General Practitioners (GPs)

• Role: GPs can offer initial support and guidance for those grieving.
• Method: They can prescribe medication if required and refer individuals to specialised services.
• Access: Via appointment at local health centres or surgeries.

Bereavement Services

• Role: Dedicated to offering emotional support specifically for those experiencing loss.
• Method: Often include one-to-one sessions, support groups, and drop-in services.
• Access: Charitable organisations, NHS referral, or direct enquiry.

Peer Support

Support Groups

• Role: Groups provide a community of people who have experienced similar losses.
• Method: People share their experiences and support each other.
• Access: Many groups are organised by charities, community centres, and churches.

Online Forums and Communities

• Role: Platforms where individuals can connect with others at any time.
• Method: Forums and chat rooms offer advice, friendship, and understanding.
• Access: Websites like Grieving.com or Reddit’s “r/griefsupport”.

Charitable Organisations

Cruse Bereavement Support

• Role: UK’s leading bereavement charity offering support and information.
• Method: Services include one-on-one bereavement support, group support, and helplines.
• Access: Through their helpline at 0808 808 1677 or visiting their website.

Winston’s Wish

• Role: Supporting children and young people dealing with the death of a loved one.
• Method: Includes online resources, one-to-one support, and group activities.
• Access: Via their website or helpline at 08088 020 021.

Samaritans

• Role: Offers 24/7 support not only for those in crisis but also for anyone experiencing grief.
• Method: Emotional support over the phone, email, or face-to-face.
• Access: By dialling 116 123 or visiting their branches for face-to-face support.

Faith-Based Support

Religious Counsellors

• Role: Often available through churches, mosques, temples, and other places of worship.
• Method: Providing spiritual and emotional support tailored to one’s faith.
• Access: Through local religious leaders or worship centres.

Faith Community Events

• Role: Sermons, prayer meetings, or retreats designed around the themes of loss and healing.
• Method: Offering space for reflection and community solidarity.
• Access: Advertised through local parishes or community bulletins.

Educational Resources

Books and Literature

• Role: Can offer comfort, understanding, and coping strategies during grief.
• Method: Range from personal memoirs to self-help guides.
• Examples: “The Year of Magical Thinking” by Joan Didion, “On Grief and Grieving” by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross.

Online Courses and Webinars

• Role: Educational resources to learn about the grieving process.
• Method: Webinars and workshops led by grief experts.
• Access: Websites like Eventbrite often list upcoming courses.

Practical Support

Legal and Financial Advisors

• Role: Assists with wills, estates, and financial matters following a death.
• Method: Provide expertise on navigating legal obligations and financial relief avenues.
• Access: Consulting solicitors or financial advisors, who may offer reduced rates for bereaved clients.

Volunteer Support Services

• Role: Help with daily tasks that may be overwhelming for someone in grief.
• Method: Includes befriending services, meal preparation, and household help.
• Examples: Organisations like Age UK or local volunteering groups.

Government and Local Health Support

NHS Bereavement Services

• Role: Part of the NHS offerings to support those dealing with bereavement.
• Method: Includes psychological support, palliative care, and mental health services.
• Access: Through GP referral or NHS 111.

Local Authorities

• Role: Provide information and sometimes direct services for bereaved constituents.
• Method: Includes making arrangements for funerals and connecting individuals with community support.
• Access: Contact local council offices for guidance.

Technology-Assisted Supports

Grief Apps

• Role: Offer tools and resources for coping with grief.
• Examples: Apps like “Grief Works” that include audio programmes and journals.
• Access: Available on app stores for mobile devices.

Virtual Reality (VR) Experiences

• Role: Emerging technology used to create interactive experiences aimed at comforting the bereaved.
• Method: Simulations that allow individuals to revisit memories in a guided environment.
• Access: Currently niche, but growing with companies exploring VR therapy.

Final Words

Grieving is a multifaceted process, and everyone experiences it differently. Having external support can make a significant difference, providing solace, understanding, and practical help during such a challenging time. Always remember to reach out and explore the numerous resources available because no one should have to navigate grief alone. Each source of support offers its own set of tools, benefits, and comforts, tailored to meet the diverse needs of those who grieve.