Bereavement - where can I get support?
Local bereavement services in Darlington
Many people find grief a lonely and isolating experience anyway, but living in isolation and being socially distant from others, are making things a lot harder for people who are bereaved. If you feel you would benefit from talking to someone in confidence there are a number of services in Darlington who can support you at this difficult time. For more information about confidential, free bereavement support please contact:
Talking Changes
0191 333 3300 (Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5pm)
St Teresa's Hospice
01325 254321
Cruse Bereavement Care
0808 808 1677
Darlington Mind
07572 888084
The Good Grief Trust
You could also join a virtual grief cafe, they offer a safe, private meeting place run via Zoom to meet others who have been through a similar experience during this difficult time
https://www.thegoodgrieftrust.org/…/pop-up-good-grief-cafes/
Coronavirus: dealing with bereavement and grief
What is bereavement?
Cruse Bereavement Care defines bereavement as the most distressing experience we will ever face. Grief is what we feel when somebody we are close to dies. Everyone experiences grief differently and there is no 'normal' or 'right' way to grieve.
During the global coronavirus pandemic bereaved people may have to deal with increased trauma, and may be cut off from some of their usual support network. Those who are already struggling with bereavement, or whose relatives or friends die through other causes will also be affected.
Getting the right help and support is important, especially as we make hard decisions following the loss of someone we love.
Supporting children through coronavirus
Winton's Wish states being cut off from family, friends and communities because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is difficult for everyone, but especially for children, young people and families who are grieving for a loved one.
They share information on topics such as telling a child someone is seriously ill or has died from coronavirus, how schools can support bereaved students and how to say goodbye if you can’t attend a funeral.
Hope Again is a Cruse Bereavement Care website for young people who have experienced a bereavement. It's a safe place where they can learn from other young people about how to cope with grief.
Bereavement and older young people
NHS England states your teenage years can be a lot of fun, but they are also often an emotional time. If someone close to you dies, it can be incredibly hard. Your world may feel as though it has crashed down around you.
It can make you feel very alone, especially as a young person, because you might find that none of your friends have gone through anything similar and won't understand or know what to say.
NHS England shares useful links, tips and information to help.
Bereavement and accessible information
The deaf charity SignHealth shares accessiable information about bereavement provided by a partnership between SignHealth’s Psychological Therapy Service (previously known as BSL Healthy Minds), Flashing Lights and the NHS.
Northern Health & Social Care Trust has designed and easy read booklet to help people with learning disabilities following bereavement.
