It is important to be sensitive when posting online about someone’s loss

Talking about death on social media

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Social media is something most of us use to stay informed and connected.

People have been using social channels like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram during the Covid-19 lockdown to stay in touch, and this has included informing others about the sad loss of a loved one, and as a way to remember them.

But when you consider that talking about death can still be something of a social taboo, people can end up being stuck for the right words.

Co-op Funeralcare is here to offer tips and advice for things to bear in mind before posting about someone close to you who has died. ● Just like grieving, there is no one way to approach using social media after the loss of a loved one. What you choose to say is very much a personal thing. ● If you are the person announcing the loss of someone on social, make sure you’ve phoned or contacted in person everyone close who needs to know before you upload something. ● Social media can be a really useful way to let others know about funeral or other arrangements. ● Take your lead from close family members of the deceased person. If they don’t post anything, you possibly shouldn’t either. ● If an announcement of someone passing is posted online, commenting to acknowledge someone’s loss is a lovely gesture. ● By all means share memories of someone if you’d like to, but don’t make the post all about you. ● Don’t use statements like “They’re in a better place”. This isn’t always helpful. If you don’t know what to say you could simply say you’re sorry for their loss and are here to support them. ● Some people may choose to keep an existing online profile of a lost loved one, or even set up a new page where people can share memories. This can create