Coping with bereavement

The following script provides support for people coping with bereavement.

Whether or not you have witnessed a death, are grieving for someone who has died, or encounter bereavement as part of your work, there are a number of organisations that provide emotional help and practical information. MIt's sometimes easier to talk to someone who isn't close to you or emotionally involved.

Cruse Bereavement Care support all bereaved people. They offer advice, support, help and information, no matter how recently or long ago you were bereaved. To find out about all the Cruse services, call their helpline on 0870 167 1677 (Mondays to Fridays 9.30am-5pm) or visit the Cruse website at www.crusebereavementcare.org.uk.

The Compassionate Friends have local support groups, provide one-to-one support and run a helpline on 0117 953 9639 (daily 10am-10.30pm). They also produce a range of publications for parents, children, grandparents and professionals. For more information on their services and copies of leaflets, send a stamped self-addressed envelope to The Compassionate Friends, 53 North Street, Bristol BS3 1EN, or visit their website at www.tcf.org.uk.

The Child Death Helpline offers support to anyone affected by the death of a child, whatever age. The line is staffed by bereaved parents and you can call it on freephone 0800 282 986 (any evening 7pm-10pm, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 10am-1pm). You can visit their website at www.childdeathhelpline.org.uk.

The Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society (SANDS) provides support for bereaved parents and their families when their baby dies, before, during or soon after birth. Call their helpline on 020 7436 5881 (Mondays to Fridays 10am-4pm). Support is also available for healthcare professionals. For further information, visit their website at www.uk-sands.org.

Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS) provide specialist emotional support and practical information for people bereaved by suicide. Call their national helpline on 0870 2413 337 (9am-9pm). Their website is at www.uk-sobs.org.uk.

If you're feeling distressed and need someone to talk to, you can phone the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90 (any time). You can visit their website at www.samaritans.org.

If you are grieving for the loss of a pet, whether through death, or enforced separation, contact the Pet Bereavement Support Service free on 0800 096 6606 (daily 8.30am-8.30pm, 24 hour answerphone). The helpline puts you in touch with your nearest trained telephone befriender. You can access their website at www.bluecross.org.uk.

When Someone Dies is a Channel 4 booklet providing practical information on what to do after a death. To order a copy, send a cheque for £2.50, payable to Channel 4, to When Someone Dies, BSS, PO Box 4000, Manchester M60 3LL.

This message has been prepared and is updated regularly by Programme Support at Channel 4.