This week, National Grief Awareness Week, coming at the end of the traditional month for remembering those we’ve loved and lost, is all the more reflective and thought provoking in 2020. Irish Hospice Foundation (IHF) recognises we are a nation united in grief more than ever before, for those we have lost due to Covid-19, for those we have been unable to grieve for in traditional ways and for those we have missed over the years.
CEO of IHF Sharon Foley commented:
“We all know that this has been a difficult year for people who are grieving whether the loss occured in recent times or longer ago. We want people to know they are not alone, that we all grieve differently and that the supports are there to help them. That help is not just for this week or month but all year round.”
HF Bereavement Support Line launched earlier this year is a free national service providing an ear to listen and practical support for those in need.
“Grief awareness is also something we can all tap into”
says Sharon.
“We can all learn to support our family, friends and neighbours as they deal with loss and grief. A phone call, text or letter can really help to let people know you’re there for them. Our Living with Loss event on 9th December will allow people hear from experts on how they may be able to help others but also to know they are not alone in dealing with their own loss.”
Sharon Foley commented:
“This has been a very difficult time for families and friends of people who have died. They may have been COVID-19 related deaths or deaths from other causes. We also know many are finding a previous loss more difficult right now.
We want to pause and remember those who have sadly died and also show our support for those grieving. Grief is difficult all year round but this Christmas it will be particularly hard. Through Never Forgotten we want to open up a space to remember while at the same time giving people an opportunity to make a real difference to those facing the end of their lives and the many people all over Ireland preparing for the festive season without that special person.”
Call Ireland’s first national Bereavement Support Line 1800 80 70 77, Monday-Friday, 10am-1pm
Sign up for Living with Loss virtual event 9th December
Visit www.bereaved.ie which is home to practical information and resources on grief and coordinating the Irish Childhood Bereavement Network.
