Bereavement Service

St Richard's Bereavement Service offers confidential support for those who have experienced the death of a close relative or friend. Our dedicated, specialist service is part of our Family Support Team, which caters for adults and children.

The death of a close relative or friend can be devastating and can bring about stronger emotions than we have previously experienced. For some people grieving starts at the time of death and for others it starts at the time of diagnosis. Grieving is a normal process following bereavement and can affect people in different ways - whether emotionally, physically, socially and in many practical areas of life.

It can be a confusing time with mixed thoughts and emotions. the world with which we were familiar has changed as with any change, it is often difficult to get used to a new situation. Some people may not show or feel any emotion at all. For others it can be experienced immediately or later - there are no set time scales. There is no right or wrong way to be following bereavement and everybodies experience is unique.

At St Richard's we recognise that many people are able to grieve with support from family and friends coping with death as a normal, but hard, part of life. However, some find it difficult and may find it helpful to share their feelings and experiences with someone from outside their immediate circle.

As such we have developed a range of different services and can tailor the care and support we provide to meet you specific needs.

Our bereavement team makes contact with all our families about 6 - 8 weeks following the death of a relative to see how they are managing and to offer support. This support can be offered in the following ways:

Telephone support
One to One support - with either one of our Family Support Workers, Family Practictioner or Counsellor depending on individual circumstances
Group support - held on a fortnightly basis either afternoon or evening

Our bereavement team is made up of a Co-ordinator, trained Family Support Workers and professionally qualified Family Practitioners and Counsellors. Our team are able to visit clients in their own homes or in the hospice to provide support. All our services are free and confidential and you can choose to access them at any time.

For further details: