Bereavement Support
“It was good to have someone outside the family to talk about my loss”
“It helped to have someone who understood the situation to talk to and listen”
These two comments made by individuals who have used the Bereavement Support Service exemplify a great deal of what the service sets out to achieve
Complementing all aspects of the clinical services provided by Hospice at Home the Bereavement Support Service is offered to patients, their relatives, carers’ and significant others.
We are able to offer individuals and their carers’ one to one support within the last year of life or following a death. The service offers an opportunity for individuals to share and talk about their thoughts and feelings concerning their bereav ement or impending loss, with someone who is not emotionally or personally involved
The service is run by a part time Co-ordinator and uses highly trained volunteers. The volunteers go through an initial intensive and on-going training programme. Support in their role is provided by the Counsellor attached to the service
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Q: Who will I see?
A: A Bereavement Support Visitor who is a carefully selected, trained volunteer
Q: Where do I see the Bereavement Support Visitor?
A: Appointments can be in your own home or at another agreed venue
Q: Will I see the volunteer on my own?
A: Yes you will. The service offers one to one support which allows you the opportunity to share your feelings and any anxieties
Q: How does the service contact me initially?
A: After approximately 4 weeks you will receive a card offering you the opportunity to use the service
Q: Can I contact the service before I receive the card?
A: Yes, you can contact the service at any time on the telephone number provided. An answer phone may be in place, please leave a message
Q: How long is each appointment?
A: Usually up to an hour
Q: How often will we meet?
A: This is flexible. People often like to meet more frequently at first and then less often, this you can discuss with your Visitor
Q: What about our family members?
A: If there is someone within the family, or others who were involved in the care or support, they can contact us by telephone
All information is treated confidentially; the Bereavement Co-ordinator or Bereavement Support Visitor will discuss this with you
Anyone who would like more information about the service, please contact
Barbara Kirkwood – Bereavement Support Service Co-ordinator
Tel: 01768 210755
Fax: 01768 899388
or
Fiona Stobart – Clinical Services Manager
Tel: 01228 603208
