The service will be delivered through Community BarnetExternal link and Mind in BarnetExternal link. Residents will be able to access social and practical support and information as well as accessing immediate emotional support and bereavement counselling. The bereavement support and counselling serviceExternal link is available to adults who live, work or study in Barnet and are struggling with bereavement. You can reach the service onlineExternal link or via 0208 0160016 or bereavement@communitybarnet.org.uk
The UK and London Borough of Barnet are experiencing a considerable number of excess deaths over an unknown period since the coronavirus was detected.
Individuals bereaved during the coronavirus outbreak will experience very difficult circumstances: the pain of unexpected deaths, the impact of social distancing on allowing people to come together to mourn and commemorate, limitations on funeral attendances, changes to traditional ceremonial processes and grieving in social isolation. The impact of trauma on the population will not only be felt during the rise to and fall of the epidemic curve, but unless addressed properly, will be felt in the longer term and could be manifested through increased deterioration in mental health and the emergence of physical manifestations of deep-seated grief.
This service will be able to offer bereaved clients a variety of different offers of support:
- Acting as the first point of call for residents seeking support, a telephone line will be open five days a week, able to respond to referrals and callers promptly; understand their needs and priorities; provide information and signposting relevant to bereavement such as arranging death certificates, funeral services, and financial support. Residents will be able to refer themselves and leave messages seven days a week.
- Providing a social support service that could range from advising callers on where to seek information around bereavement related activities, as well as to up-to-date information and signposting with regard to existing and current Covid specific support.
- If referred through to Mind in BarnetExternal link, residents will be able to access immediate emotional support by telephone, email, text, webchat and other digital means. The service will maintain regular contact with the bereaved as some people may not be ready receive support immediately but may need help after a while.
- Residents will be offered weekly bereavement counselling sessions and this offer will include one-to-one and group support options.