After the funeral is over…
When someone dies, the focus is naturally on giving them the most fitting send-off.
It’s after the funeral that a sense of isolation can hit, as we come to terms with life without the person who has died.
Manny Badyal, funeral director at Co-op Funeralcare in Nottingham, explains the importance of having ongoing support.
How does Co-op support people beyond a funeral?
We stay in contact so you don’t feel like you’re dealing with your grief alone. We’ll call within 48 hours, to see how everyone’s doing. For some families that’s enough; others may need more support. We make sure there’s still a level of care there, and we can connect you to organisations like our partner, Cruse Bereavement Support.
When is support needed most?
It can often be the day after the funeral, when you might no longer have your fellow mourners around, and you’re facing life without your loved one. But everyone’s timescale is different, so we’re there to help you whenever you need it.
What form can that support take?
It might just be someone to talk to, or signposting to activities organised by local community groups or churches, just to get you out for a few hours. You can chat to us about memorial items, which can be a great source of comfort. For more on what we offer, see coop.co.uk/bereavementhelp.
What about volunteering?
Family members often want to give back as part of their healing, and getting involved in community activities can help overcome any feelings of social isolation. The Co-operate website will show you whats happening in your local area, from activities and groups to volunteering opportunities. Getting involved in the community provides a sense of normality as well as a reason to keep going.