This page is intended to help anyone recently bereaved, or for anyone involved in researching Death and Dying, we hope that your experience from using this page is a helpful and positive one...if we can help any further please feel free to email Andrew

The death of somebody close to us is a shattering experience.

Widows and widowers are faced with the painful and daunting task of coping with all that bereavement brings, and with the challenge of finding a new sense of life and purpose. Loss of a child or of a parent bring their own particular pains and difficulties of readjustment. All of this takes time - nearly always longer than we think - and help of many kinds may be needed. Cruse help is available either through links with Cruse House or through contact with a local branch. It includes counselling someone to share things with; advice and information on practical matters; and opportunities for contact with others. It is personal and confidential help, backed by a wide range of special publications.

Cruse co-operates with statutory and voluntary organisations, and without being political in its activities is concerned about the statutory provision of pensions and benefits. It is represented in Parliament and has close links with Government departments. Cruse is also involved in training and education. It runs courses and conferences for those who care for the bereaved, and does whatever it can to increase society's understanding of bereavement and the needs of bereaved people.

HOW CRUSE CAN HELP

By giving the bereaved the support and encouragement they need in several ways:-

Carefully selected and trained compassionate people are available to counsel the bereaved in confidence individually in their own homes, particularly during the early months and when things are at their worst, and continuing for as long as the need exists.

Sympathetic people are available to help the bereaved adapt to new practical tasks and advice is also available on legal, financial and other similar issues, which affect bereaved people.

BY SOCIAL ACTIVITIES

Regular meetings and events provide the opportunity to meet new people, establish understanding friendships and gradually to move towards a new life. Trained Counsellors are available at Social Support Group events if a member feels the need to talk privately.

Social Support Groups are held in Keighley and Skipton.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

* Tell any recently bereaved person in the area we serve about Cruse.

* Volunteer to train to become a Counsellor.

* Volunteer to become an Advisor in legal, financial, housing and other matters which frequently are worrying to the bereaved.

* Volunteer to help with fund-raising.

* Contribute financially as a 'Friend of Cruse'.

Enquiries - for correspondence only

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