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How support groups can help

Following a major incident, there are likely to be practical problems to deal with. Any inquest or criminal enquiry can be easier to cope with if you have the support and understanding of others affected by the incident. Support groups can be very helpful, offering concrete advice and suggestions about how to deal with specific issues. In a group you can also share information that is important to everyone.

Also, support groups often share a common experience and so help alleviate the isolation that can be felt by people after an incident.

Practical advice from Disaster Action

Disaster Action is a charity set up and run by survivors and bereaved from UK and overseas disasters. They have produced information on setting up family and survivor groups, and this includes information on how such groups can help.

• Setting up support groups Opens new window

Anniversaries

Anniversaries can be a particularly difficult time, so it may be worth thinking in advance about how you would like to mark the day. You may want to have time alone, visit a particular place, or spend the day with other people.

It is also worth bearing in mind that media attention is likely to increase at these times.

There are a number of bereavement support organisations that are available should you wish to speak with them, including Cruse Bereavement Care.

• Cruse Bereavement Care Opens new window