Devastated by the loss of a loved one? Convinced that no one could possibly understand the depths of your grief?
Don't despair because there is someone close at hand who does understand what you are going through - usually because they have gone through it themselves.
Cruse Bereavement Care is a national organisation with local branches, which specialises in giving practical help and support to those in mourning for a loved one.
Staffed by local volunteers and specially-trained counsellors, Cruse can lend a helping hand or sympathetic ear. Many volunteers have joined the organisation after benefiting themselves from the help Cruse can offer.
Founded in 1959, Cruse Bereavement Care is an organisation for all bereaved people. As well as providing much-needed support to those who have suffered the loss of someone close, the organisation also helps in practical ways.
Counselling offers the chance to talk though feelings and anxieties and there are specialist advisers and literature to assist with day-to-day matters.
In addition, Cruse arranges regular meetings and events and provides the opportunity to meet new people, make new friends and slowly move towards a new life.
As well as its work directly with the bereaved, Cruse is concerned about the statutory provisions of pensions and benefits and is represented in Parliament with close links to Government departments.
The organisation runs courses and conferences for those who care for the bereaved, and works towards increasing society's understanding of bereavement and the needs of bereaved people.
There is also special advice available to help children cope with the loss of a parent or other loved one.
Eventually you may discover that you would like to help others who have suffered bereavement. Cruse is always on the lookout for people who can help the organisation with its work with and for the bereaved. You could assist by:
- Volunteering to train as a counsellor
- Helping with fund-raising
- Becoming one of the group's practical helpers
- Helping with social activities
- Contributing financially as a Friend of Cruse, for example by sponsoring publicity such as newspaper advertisements.
A confidential national helpline is available on 0870 167 1677.
The Cruse website can be found on www.crusebereavementcare.org.uk