Support with bereavement, grief, and loss

Bereavement and loss can affect everyone differently, and there is no right or wrong way to feel. Grief is the range of emotions we experience, and the process that we go through, in reaction to loss.

Grief can be complex. There are different types of grief that you may experience in response to bereavement or loss, which include:

• Anticipatory grief. This is the grief that we feel before death or loss occurs, when we are anticipating or expecting it to happen.
• Secondary loss. This refers to the other losses you experience because of bereavement (primary loss). For example, the loss of future experiences.
• Collective grief. This is a loss that is shared amongst a group or community when they experience the impact of death or loss together.

Generally, people expect to be very upset or distressed when someone close to them has died. However, what can be surprising is how strong and variable emotions can be and how long they can last. The way in which a person grieves is unique to them, their circumstances, and their connection to the person who has died.

We know that no-one can understand exactly what your loss feels like to you. However, we also know that, sometimes, it can be easier to talk to someone who is not directly connected to you, about the impact of bereavement, grief, and loss on your life.

There are a number of organisations providing support with bereavement – whether it’s by phone, email, online chat or in person.

Our helpline

Our helpline provides free information and emotional support to anyone living with a muscle wasting or weakening condition as well family members, carers, and friends. We also support families through bereavement, grief, and loss.

We’re here to help or simply to listen. Call 0800 652 6352, we’re here for you Monday to Thursday 10am to 2pm. Or email us on info@musculardystrophyuk.org.

GriefChat

GriefChat is an organisation that supports us to provide access to free professional bereavement support through a live chat box, which you can find at the bottom right of our website.

They provide a safe space for people to share their story and explore their feelings. GriefChat is open Monday – Friday, 9am – 9pm (except for Bank holidays). During those hours, you can access a live instant chat service with a qualified bereavement counsellor.

Out of hours, you can leave your email address and someone will contact you by the end of the next working day.

Cruse Bereavement Support

Cruse is a charity that provides bereavement support and information across the UK. They can provide one to one support for adults, and support for children and young people.

Get support – Cruse Bereavement Support

Cruse Scotland supports bereaved adults, children and young people across Scotland and provides counselling, listening services, information, advice and training.

Cruse Bereavement Care (crusescotland.org.uk)

Child Bereavement UK

Child Bereavement UK helps families to rebuild their lives when a child dies. They also support children and young people (up to the age of 25).

Child Bereavement UK 

The Compassionate Friends (TCF)

TCF is a charitable organisation of bereaved parents, siblings, and grandparents. They are dedicated to the support and care of bereaved families who have suffered the death of a child, or children, of any age and from any cause.

The Compassionate Friends 

Winston’s Wish

Winston’s Wish is a childhood bereavement charity who support grieving children and young people. They provide specialist child bereavement support services across the UK.

Bereavement support for children and families | Winston’s Wish (winstonswish.org)

When you’re grieving, it can be hard to think about the practical things you need to do when someone dies. For example, you’ll need to register the death, tell the government, arrange a funeral and more. GOV.UK has put together a practical guide to help you understand what you need to do, step by step.

When someone dies, it can have a huge impact on your financial situation and your income. However, there may be benefits, grants, or other financial support available to you.

Call our helpline on 0800 652 6352 Monday to Thursday 10am to 2pm or email info@musculardystrophyuk.org for advice on financial support when someone has died.

Here are some helpful resources:

• Getting help with funeral costs (GOV.UK)
• Benefits and financial support when someone dies (GOV.UK)
• How to claim bereavement benefits (Citizens Advice)
• After a funeral: bereavement and finances (Quaker Social Action)

We understand that, if you’re experiencing bereavement, grief, and loss, this is a very difficult and upsetting time.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and distressed, and you think that you require support with your mental health, please book a GP appointment or contact:

Samaritans - 116 123 (every day: 24 hours)

Give us a shout - text 85258 (24-hour text service)

If you would like to chat to a bereavement counsellor now, please click the GriefChat box at the bottom of the page. GriefChat is open 9am-9pm, Monday-Friday.