A new nationwide bereavement support service has been launched by Marie Curie, the UK’s leading end of life charity.

Many people are grieving in isolation, unable to use their usual support networks, and may be dealing with the additional psychological and emotional impact of not being able to properly say goodbye.

Marie Curie’s national bereavement service is available to anyone affected by the death of a loved one. The service enables people to access free emotional support from a dedicated volunteer, over the phone, for up to six weeks. The charity has trained 30 new volunteers and expects to double this in the coming weeks.

The bereavement service is in addition to the charity’s telephone support line which is already available for anyone, including health and social care professionals to call for practical information and emotional support as well as clinical guidance on care for the dying.

Marie Curie Bereavement Services Coordinator, Angharad Burden, said: “We have seen a number of people get in touch with us who are grieving in isolation. They’ve told us that they wouldn’t normally feel the need to access support but being in lockdown means they have been unable to lean on their usual support networks for help.

“The pandemic is forcing everyone to confront death in ways we never could’ve comprehended just a few weeks ago, but we’re here, on the other end of the phone, to support anyone who needs us. I urge anyone who is struggling with any aspect of dying, death or bereavement to call our Support Line free on 0800 090 2309 or to visit mariecurie.org.uk/support.”

To access Marie Curie’s new bereavement service, call their support line on 0800 090 2309. This service is available to anyone affected by the death of a loved one at any time of their life.

Marie Curie also is calling for a national day to reflect, grieve and remember everyone who has died during this time, whether from coronavirus or another cause. Visit mariecurie.org.uk/nationalday #UniteInMemory

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