Covid bereavement support service launched in Halton
Bereavement has come with added challenges during the pandemic due to social distancing, visiting restrictions and isolation.
File photo of a funeral taking place. (PA)
Residents across Widnes and Runcorn who have lost a loved one to Covid can now access bereavement support which has been commissioned due to the pandemic.
Halton Borough Council has procured the service in the wake of the challenges to the grieving process such as being unable to spend time with dying relatives or to attend a full funeral.
The service consists of:
- Initial referral and assessment via the Listening Ear contact centre from 9am to 5pm, five days a week by telephone, email, and an online referral system
- Wellbeing group counselling workshops.
- One-to-one counselling with up to eight sessions face-to-face or via telephone or video.
- Self-help support for physical and mental wellbeing.
- A bereavement freephone 0800 048 5224 support service, offering practical and emotional support.
- Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT).
The service is open to residents living in the borough of Halton spanning Runcorn and Widnes, Cheshire, and some neighbouring villages.
Cllr Marie Wright (health and wellbeing) said: “The pandemic has made it so much harder for many who have been bereaved during this time.
"Being unable to see a dying relative, attend a funeral or simply be with other family members and friends at such a difficult time means many more people are struggling with grief and loss.
"We hope that through this new service more of our residents in Halton can seek help and support during a difficult time.”
Richard Brown, Listening Ear chief executive, said: “The Covid-19 pandemic has had a profound effect across the country, and the new Halton Bereavement Service will provide practical and emotional support for local residents.
"The helpline is staffed with fully trained counsellors and can provide immediate support.
“When accessing the helpline, the workers will undertake an initial assessment for the suitability of either the helpline or the other services that have been commissioned.
“The bereavement counselling element ensures that people who require more specialised support can receive counselling from a local BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) accredited counselling service.”
