Death and bereavement have been very much on our minds over the past few weeks. The national, and indeed international, response to the death of Queen Elizabeth II has reminded us all about the importance of being able to show and share one’s feelings. In some ways it feels as if people have found it easier to express their sadness for the passing of the Queen than perhaps people in their own lives. For a famously reserved nation we have been anything but.
At Home & Company, where we are supporting people who are older or living with longterm health conditions, we inevitably experience bereavement on fairly regular basis. And of course everyone deals with it very differently. Some find comfort in getting on with the practical tasks that need to be undertaken, others need time away from their usual lives to process what’s happened. But at some point it’s really good to talk about things. Our lovely friends at Bungards Funeral Directors in Brighton realised this many years ago and in fact offer free bereavement counselling with a really experienced bereavement counsellor to all their clients.
If you think talking with a bereavement counsellor would be helpful the Cruse bereavement helpline is a good first port of call. Their national helpline is 0808 808 1677. The Sussex Bereavement Helpline is also a good point of contact on 0300 111 2141.
Death is a tricky subject to broach, and we’re not very good at talking about it. But in fact most of us do have views about what we do and don’t want to happen when the time comes. Death cafes are held regularly around Sussex and are an informal place to talk through some of our fears or provide a chance to reflect on a loved one. They are usually drop in sessions so look up your nearest one and just turn up.
Living Well Dying Well is a brilliant organisation that, amongst other things, helps people to think through and document their preferences about all sorts of aspects including where you want to be, who you want with you, what interventions you with to have if any, and those small important details like music, films, food and much more. If you would like to know more do contact Living Well Dying Well on 01273 474278 or see Living Well Dying Well
And of course we are always happy to talk or sign post you to the right place so feel free to call Home & Company on 01273 434190.