Bereavement support

The death of a relative or close friend can be one of the most distressing experiences we ever go through. Everyone experiences these losses differently and there is no right or wrong way to grieve the death of someone close to us.

Find support

When somebody dies it is usual to have lots of questions about the practicalities of what happens as well as processing the emotional responses to your loss. Many people find support from friends, family and their local community invaluable at this difficult time.

The NHS website provides guidance about coping with bereavement, including information about the stages of grief to help you recognise that what you may be going through is normal.

You can find support through local health services, charities and other organisations that are dedicated to helping people through bereavement and grief.

You may find the following organisations and resources helpful during your bereavement:

• Cruse Bereavement Care offer free confidential support for adults and children when someone dies, by telephone, email or face-to-face. Call 0808 808 1677
• Carers UK provide information, advice and support to carers and their families, with useful information for carers who have suffered a bereavement. Call 0808 808 7777
• Miscarriage Association offer support and information for those suffering the effects of pregnancy loss. Call Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm on 01924 200 799
• GOV.UK has information on what to do after someone dies, such as registering the death and planning a funeral
• Bereavement Advice Centre offers advice on all aspects of bereavement from registering the death and finding a funeral director through to probate, tax and benefit queries. Call 0800 634 9494

Bereavement by suicide

Losing someone to suicide is devastating and can make you feel a range of emotions, in addition to the normal grieving process. Some of the feelings may come as a surprise or shock to you. It is important to know that this is normal and you are not alone in experiencing these feelings. it is important that you receive the right support to help you through this. 

• If you live in Bexley, Bromley, Greenwich, Lambeth, Lewisham or Southwark you can access the Suicide Bereavement Service.
• If you live in Croydon, you can access the South West London Suicide Bereavement Liaison Service

Other support 

• Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) - support after suicide, especially after the loss of a young man
• Rethink Mental Illness provides support on coping with loss after suicide and any investigations that might take place 
• Help is at Hand is a guide for people affected by suicide, with both practical and emotional support
• Support after Suicide Partnership provides resources for those bereaved by suicide and signposting to local support groups and organisations 

If you are feeling suicidal, or you're worried about someone, visit our crisis support page or call our 24 hour mental health crisis line on 0800 731 2864 (Option 1).