Bereavement support service for Sheffield families during pandemic

Sheffield Council has commissioned Listening Ear to provide support to anyone who has been bereaved or needs additional support, for example, people working in caring roles.

It will provide support, advice or guidance to anyone who needs it.

Any bereavements during this unprecedented time, whether caused by doronavirus or not, are more complicated and stressful than usual.

With restrictions on seeing family members and limits to the number of people allowed at funerals, it is likely to be a very challenging time for a lot of residents.

Referrals can be made by the person themselves, or by the police, primary care staff, hospital bereavement service staff or GPs, mortuary staff, funeral directors, the coroner’s officer, crematorium and bereavement services staff, or community and faith organisations.

The support service launched on Monday and will initially run for eight weeks and will continue depending on demand.

Councils in Barnsley, Rotherham and Doncaster are also working in partnership to provide the service in these areas.

Coun Jim Andrews, Barnsley Council cabinet spokesman for public health, said: “We know the coronavirus/Covid-19 pandemic is causing a lot of difficultly and upset for many of our residents.

“It’s affecting all our lives in some way.

“However, for people who’ve lost a loved one during this time, this situation is made even more challenging.

“If you need someone to talk to, a compassionate ear to listen, due to bereavement, we’re here to help.

“The normal grieving process of spending time with loved ones and attending a funeral is currently not possible due to the coronavirus.

“Therefore, we want to make sure our residents have the support they need.

“Please make use of the Listening Ear service if you need it.”

To access Listening Ear support, call 0800 048 5224.

Alternatively, visit www.listening-ear.co.uk/refer