S.O.S Support
Please note that we are not a crisis service, so if you are in need of immediate support please do reach out to Samaritans who provide immediate listening support. They can be reached on 116 123.
Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness, and we encourage you to look after yourself as best you can during a difficult time. You are very welcome to attend our support events. Given that we are not a 24-hour service we often signpost people to other sources of support. If you are looking for immediate support for yourself or others we can recommend the following:
Visiting your GP: If you find yourself struggling to function because of your loss we recommend visiting your GP to talk about how you are feeling. It may be that your GP can recommend a support group in your area, can refer you for one-to-one bereavement counselling, or let you know about other types of support in your community. Bereavement counselling can sometimes involve a long waiting list so we encourage you to speak with your GP as soon as possible about your needs.
Samaritans is a confidential telephone support line. They are available 24-hours a day and provide wonderful support. All of their volunteers are brilliantly trained, and are there to talk with you about anything and everything. If you need to talk you can call them anytime on 116-123.
Cruse are a bereavement organisation that have a national helpline available 9.30-5pm (excluding bank holidays), with extended hours on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings, when they are open until 8pm. You can reach them on 0808 808 1677.
Macmillan have an online forum for bereaved partners and spouses where you can send chat messages to people who have experienced a similar loss. To join the forum and chat to others in a similar position for support, click here.
Macmillan also have an online forum for bereaved family members and friends. To join in with the conversations and get support click here.
Other sources of support:
AtaLoss is the UK’s ‘one stop shop’ website for finding your nearest bereavement support.
Counselling Directory provides information on finding therapists local to you who may be able to support you in your grief.
Down to Earth provide practical support for those struggling with funeral costs.
Gov.uk provides some information on the practical steps that need to be taken after someone passes away.
Money Advice Service provide very comprehensive information about the practical steps that need to be taken when somebody dies.
WAY – Widowed and Young is a self-help group that offers support to young widows and widowers. They have a growing community.
Way Up is an online forum aiming to offer mutual support to people widowed in their 50s and 60s. People often make friends via this forum and members arrange meet-ups.