Support Following a Bereavement

When a Family Suffers a Bereavement: What Actions Our Practice Takes

Losing a loved one is a deeply emotional and challenging experience. At our practice, we aim to support you through this difficult time by offering guidance, practical help, and information about local and national resources. Below is an outline of how we can assist you:

1. Immediate Steps Following a Bereavement

Verification of Death: If your loved one passed away at home, contact their GP or an out-of-hours doctor to confirm and verify the death.

Issuance of a Medical Certificate: We will issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD), usually within 1-2 working days. This is required for registering the death.

2. Registering the Death

You must register the death within five days. This can be done at the Plymouth Register Office:

Plymouth Register Office

Address: Lockyer Street, Plymouth, PL1 2QD

Phone: 01752 268331

Website: www.plymouth.gov.uk

Bring the MCCD and any supporting documents (e.g., birth or marriage certificates).

3. Support from the Practice

Bereavement Appointment: We can arrange a bereavement appointment with one of our GPs or a member of our nursing team to discuss your emotional and physical wellbeing.

Medication Review: If the deceased was prescribed medications, please return them to a pharmacy for safe disposal. Let us know if you need guidance on this process.

4. Emotional Support for Grief

Grief is a natural process, but it can take many forms. You may feel sadness, anger, guilt, or even relief. We encourage you to seek help if you're struggling.

Counselling Services: The practice can refer you to counselling services such as Plymouth Options (www.livewellsouthwest.co.uk).

Support Groups: Plymouth offers various bereavement support groups, such as:

St Luke’s Bereavement Services

Phone: 01752 964200

Website: www.stlukes-hospice.org.uk

Cruse Bereavement Support

Phone: 0808 808 1677

Website: www.cruse.org.uk

5. Helping Children Cope with Loss

Children may grieve differently from adults, and their needs can vary by age. We recommend:

Winston’s Wish (www.winstonswish.org) for resources and advice on supporting bereaved children.

Scheduling an appointment if your child is experiencing significant distress or behavioural changes.

6. Practical Support

Funeral Planning: We can provide information about local funeral directors and funeral planning services.

Financial Assistance: You may be eligible for bereavement benefits. Visit www.gov.uk/bereavement-support-payment or speak to Citizens Advice Plymouth for guidance.

7. Supporting Someone Who is Grieving

If someone you know has suffered a loss, here are practical ways to help:

• Offer to listen without judgment.
• Provide practical assistance, such as preparing meals or helping with errands.
• Encourage professional support if they are struggling.
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8. Further Resources

Marie Curie Support Line: 0800 090 2309

Samaritans: 116 123 (24/7 confidential support)

HelpGuide on Grief: www.helpguide.org

We Are Here for You

Please do not hesitate to contact the practice if you need further support or advice. Grieving is a personal journey, and we are committed to helping you navigate this difficult time.