This is a talking point published in the Hereford Times on September 19.

Clare Evans, public health suicide prevention officer

EACH suicide has a profound ripple effect, impacting as many as 135 people, including family members, friends, and colleagues. While the immediate aftermath of such a loss can be devastating, the effects can linger long after.

Recognising this reality, Herefordshire is fortunate to have access to two bereavement support services tailored specifically for those bereaved by suicide.

The Bereaved by Suicide service run by Jenny Freeman (Victim Support) provides free, confidential support for individuals aged four and above, regardless of when the bereavement occurred.

This service ensures that help is available without time constraints, highlighting the importance of personalised care tailored to individual needs — whether in-home, in a public setting, or via telephone.

As one anonymous user shared: “Talking to you has felt like a great weight has been lifted off my shoulders; I feel so much lighter.”

In addition, Stuart Henderson and his team of experienced facilitators and volunteers at Cruse Bereavement offer a monthly peer support group that provides a safe space for individuals to share experiences and support one another through similar losses.

The group meets the third Wednesday of each month at the Fred Bulmer Centre, Hereford. This supportive environment hopes to bring support instead of suffering alone, understanding instead of confusion, and remembrance instead of silence. 

“The group at Cruse was a safe space, where we could revisit our grief in a focused way.”

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Facilitated by trained volunteers with first-hand experience, these sessions empower participants to navigate their grief rather than face it in isolation,” said one Cruse Bereavement service user.

To access these services, you can self-refer by contacting Herefordshire Bereaved by Suicide service by email at hre.bbs@victimsupport.org.uk, or by contacting the Cruse Support Group helpline and leaving a message on 01432 359469 or emailing stuart.henderson@ cruse.org.uk.

Immediate support resources for all ages are available on the Suicide Bereavement UK website: Immediate SupportResources: Suicide Bereavement UK.