Additional support over the holidays

Coping with bereavement
1

Hello everyone,

We know that Christmas and the new year can be very difficult when we’re grieving. The Online Community team will be here as always, with reduced hours on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. And there will always be someone on the community to listen. But if you need some extra support, here are some options that you can explore.

If you are struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide

You might also find it helpful to read Mind’s guide on coping with suicidal feelings, and coping with thoughts of self-harm.

Helplines, webchats and text support

  • Samaritans are available 24/7 to talk about anything that you are worried about in confidence. You can call them on 116 123.

  • Shout are contactable by text, 24/7. You can text REMEDY to 85258 and talk to them about anything.

  • thecalmzone.net provides a helpline and online chat, as well as information and support, for anyone affected by suicide or suicidal thoughts. Their helpline and webchat are open over Christmas. You can call them on 0800 58 58 58.

  • The Compassionate Friends provides support to bereaved families after the death of a child. Their helpline is open from 10am to 4pm, and 7pm to 10pm, every day of the year. You can call them on 0345 123 2304.

  • Winston’s Wish offer advice and support for grieving children and young people. Their support line is on 08088 020 02 and open between 8am and 8pm, Monday to Friday.

  • Child Bereavement UK support families when a child dies or is grieving. They also support siblings. Their helpline on 0800 1026175.

  • The Silver Line provides support, information, friendship and advice for anyone aged over 55 who may feel lonely or isolated. The Silver Line is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. You can call them on 0800 4 70 80 90.

  • Trussell Trust provide emergency food and support for people in need. Their website includes a searchable list of local foodbanks. The Help through Hardship line is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. The helpline is closed on public holidays. You can call them on 0808 208 2138.

  • Drinkaware have a list of resources for people who are worried about their own drinking, or someone else’s drinking. Drinkline is a free, confidential helpline for anyone who is concerned about their drinking, or someone else’s. Their helpline is on 0300 123 1110. (weekdays 9am–8pm, weekends 11am–4pm) If you are in Scotland, you can also contact Drinkline Scotland on 0800 7314 314.

Sue Ryder resources

  • Our Grief Guide self-help platform which has information, resources and advice to help you through your grief
  • Our Grief Coach one-way text service, which sends you personalised text support via SMS
  • Our Bereavement Information pages which can walk you through what you are going through.

You can also read our coping with grief at Christmas support page.

Sue Ryder Grief Guide self-help resources

If there are things that you find helpful in coping with grief, please do share them on the thread.

Take good care, you are not alone :blue_heart:

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