Bereavement

Bereavement and grief are natural processes, but they can be devastating experiences for some people, especially when the death was traumatic. In the early days following the bereavement reactions can be overwhelming, confusing and exhausting.

They are likely to be very intense, causing emotional and, in some cases, physical pain, especially if their death was sudden.

For some people talking to a friend or family member about their feelings helps. Other people might need more support. There are bereavement services that can give extra support.

In an emergency, if you or someone else is at risk of harm, call 999 or visit your nearest A&E.

Whatever you're going through, contact Samaritans for free 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Bereavement support

Read

Support after Suicide
This guide can support you from the beginning. What happens next, emotional and practical advice, plus organisations that can help.

Sudden Death
Support when someone has died suddenly for any reason.

Meet

CHUMS: Hertfordshire and West Essex Suicide Bereavement Service

The CHUMS Suicide Bereavement Service provides emotional and practical support to those affected by a suicide or suspected suicide death. They support adults and children, residing in Hertfordshire and West Essex. Email: hsbs@chums.uk.com or Telephone: 01279 212170

Cruse Bereavement Support

Promotes the wellbeing of bereaved people and enables anyone suffering bereavement to understand their grief and cope with their loss. Telephone support available.

Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS)

Local and virtual self-help support groups. Listen, share, ask questions and connect with other people who have been bereaved by suicide.

Mental health support

Hertfordshire

Call HPFT NHS Single Point of Access (SPA)
Freephone number: 0800 6444 101 for mental health support for all ages whether you are experiencing a mental health crisis, need mental health support or just want to talk (24 hours a day, 365 days a year).

NightLight
Countywide out of hour’s mental health crisis service providing a safe and welcoming space for people who are feeling distressed and experiencing a crisis 16+

Wellbeing Team
free, confidential talking therapy and practical support for people 16+ experiencing a wide range of common mental health difficulties

Mind in Mid Herts
prevention, recovery and support services for 16+ in Stevenage, St Albans, Hertford and Welwyn Garden City

Herts Mind Network
aims to create opportunities for individuals 18+ to build resilience and manage their whole life and wellbeing out of 7 wellbeing centres in Hertfordshire. They also offer a range of support for young people, find out more on their website: Services for Young People – Hertfordshire Mind Network (hertsmindnetwork.org)

JustTalk Mental Health
Mental health help and advice for young people and students. Includes self help guides, support organisations and our Five Ways to Wellbeing.

Bedfordshire

Bedfordshire Wellbeing Service
Through talking therapies we will help you get to the root of your problems and to manage and overcome your difficulties.

Bedfordshire Mental Health Services
Bedfordshire Mental Health and Wellbeing Service provides mental health services across Bedford Borough and Central Bedfordshire.

Mind BLMK
Mind BLMK works across our communities to support positive mental health and wellbeing in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes.

Mind BLMK Crisis cafe
Crisis Cafes are safe, non-judgemental spaces that you can come to if you find yourself in crisis or mental distress in the evenings. You will be met by a trained mental health worker who will listen and help you identify ways to address the problems you are facing.

Talk to someone

Samaritans
24 hour confidential listening service. Emotional support for anyone in crisis.

For men

CALM
Confidential and anonymous support.

For under 35s

Papyrus
Confidential helpline if you, or someone you know, is at risk of suicide.

For the LGBT+ community

LGBT Switchboard
Listening service via phone, email or instant messaging.