Find local bereavement support

Experiencing bereavement is difficult at any time but it may be particularly traumatic during the COVID-19 pandemic. There is a wealth of support available to you, and we have put together details of support services ranging from emotional support and peer support to practical advice and guidance.

Advice and guidance

• BCP Council
• Dorset Council
• Bereavement Advice Centre
• UK Government advice
• British Psychological Society

Bereavement support

Adults

• Cruse - 0808 808 1677
• National Bereavement Partnership - 0800 448 0800
• Funeral directors also offer bereavement support services 

Children and families

• Mosaic - 01258 837071
• Winston's Wish - 08088 020 021
• Hope Again - 0808 808 1677
• Child Bereavement UK – 0800 02 888 40
• The Compassionate Friends - 0345 123 2304
• Simon Says - 02380 647550

Other resources and support

• Dorset Mental Health Forum
• Dorset Mind
• Rethink - Dorset Carers Support - 01305 262771
• Recovery Education Centre – 01202 584478
• Contact your local faith organisation or Faithworks
• Dorset Coroner's Service – 01202 454910

Mental health crisis

If you're in distress or feel you can't cope, contact Connection, Dorset's 24/7 helpline on 0300 123 5440 or call Samaritans 116 123

Bereavement by suicide

• Help is at Hand (Support After Suicide)
• SoBs - Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide - 0300 111 5065

If you're not sure what you might find helpful, Dorset Open Door can help. As a partnership of healthcare organisations and charities, they'll explore your options with you and link you with the right service.

You can call 01305 361 361 or email dhc.dorsetopendoor@nhs.net Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 4.30pm.

Dorset Open Door