Family support and counselling following bereavement

Counselling can help Counselling is a confidential talking therapy that involves a trained therapist listening to you and helping you find ways to deal with difficult emotions.

It is important to understand that counselling is not the same as going to a doctor or another professional who will tell you what is wrong with you; it is not a magic pill.

We believe in the ability of everyone to achieve change if they really want it.

For relatives and friends who are bereaved, counselling may be helpful in the following circumstances: • • • • • • •

Feeling emotionally exhausted Following a traumatic death Several bereavements or other types of loss Concurrent life crises, pressures or health problems Responsibility for supporting other dependants Limited support from friends or family Wanting to move forward but afraid of forgetting your loved one

Grosvenor House, Queensway, Winsford, Cheshire CW7 1BH Registered Charity No. 515595

How to access our bereavement services The Counselling Service is restricted to families who are already accessing other Hospice services.

A referral form needs to be completed by either a healthcare professional or individuals can contact St Luke’s Family Support and Counselling Team directly on 01606 551246.

Do I have to pay?

There is no cost to attend counselling sessions, but donations are gratefully received.

Thank you.

T 01606 551246 E fsc@slhospice.co.uk www.slhospice.co.uk

Family and Family Support andSupport Counselling Counselling following following Bereavement Bereavement

Adult Bereavement Drop In Groups When do we meet?

How to access the service

We hold informal drop in support groups throughout the month to support bereaved people. These groups are held in the Hospice, with the sessions running in both the daytime and the evening.

A referral form needs to be completed by either a healthcare professional or you can contact St Luke’s Family Support and Counselling Team directly on 01606 551246.

Who can attend?

New members are always welcomed to the bereavement drop in groups.

Individuals decide themselves when they wish to join the group or how often they attend.

We are able to support those who have lost a loved one through a progressive illness until the second anniversary.

What happens at the groups?

Each group is facilitated by trained counsellors and volunteers. They are run as an informal drop in where you are able to meet others who are in a similar position, creating a sense of belonging which can help with feelings of isolation.

Tea and coffee is provided at all the drop in groups.

The group is not restricted to those who have accessed other hospice services; however, a referral form is required before attending the drop in groups to ensure you fit within the Hospice remit.

“At easily the most difficult time of my life, I found their support very encouraging.”

Phoenix Group for children and young people The Phoenix Group is a counselling service and support group for children aged 6-16 who have experienced the loss of someone close due to illness.

Tell me about the Phoenix Group The group aims to support the family unit by providing a safe and friendly environment where young people can feel accepted and secure.

Trained staff facilitate the sessions which focus on helping the children understand the loss and change they have experienced.

The group is also a place where children can meet others who are in a similar situation. This can help to create a sense of belonging which helps them feel less isolated.

Who can attend?

Children and young people aged 6–16 who have experienced the death, through illness, of someone important to them.

The number of sessions available will be discussed at the start. Children

decide themselves if and when they wish to join the group, and how often they attend.

How to access the service A referral form needs to be completed by a healthcare professional, or a parent/guardian can contact St Luke’s Family Support and Counselling Team directly on 01606 551246.

The group is not restricted to those who have accessed other hospice services; however, a referral form is required before attending the Phoenix Group to ensure you fit within the Hospice remit.