Pandemic causes waiting list for online counselling service
counselling service is providing a lifeline tomany, butwe cannot keep up with demand.”
She added: “We are asking the public to please give what they can, however small, to enable us to increase our free bereavement counselling and support the people who are waiting for our help at this incredibly difficult time.”
And the demand on services is something that counsellors are feeling.
One, who did not wish to be named, said: “Many of the past times which may bring us some comfort when we are grieving, such as meeting friends and family or other coping strategies such as going to support groups are not available to us right now.
“Having our usual routines of school, work or activities can provide us with a sense of safety like an anchor to life before our loss. This consistency can help with our process of grieving; now this has changed for every one of us.
“For the recently bereaved, the inability to have physical contact with people can be very difficult, if families are not living in the same households they are currently not able to hug or hold each other.
“Having to stand two metres away from a loved one who is sharing your grief can feel cruel and difficult to bear.
“This is a time when people need support from specialist services more than ever. As a society, we need to support bereaved people to get back on their feet after loss. Sue Ryder's bereavement services can significantly help with that process and support people at the most difficult time of their lives.”
And the appeal is backed by the actor Sheila Hancock, who was married to Inspector Morse actor John Thaw.
She said: “Dealing with the death of a loved one is always difficult; I know that – but never more so than it is now.
“Maybe you're grieving in isolation or you're really unhappy in the way your loved one died. You are not alone and thanks to Sue Ryder help is at hand to help you navigate your grief.”
For more details, or to make a donation, visit sueryder.org/ support