Support for people bereaved by suicide

19 Nov 24

If you have been bereaved by suicide, we understand it can be a time of confusion, shock and deep sadness. As a Trust, we are committed to widening support for those bereaved or affected by suicide.

Recently, the Herts and West Essex Suicide Bereavement Service Professionals held an event at HPFT's head office.

People sitting at tables, watching a speaker from the Hertfordshire and West Essex Suicide Bereavement Service

It brought together staff from various organisations to reflect on postvention support provided by the CHUMS Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing Service to individuals bereaved or affected by suicide in Hertfordshire and West Essex in the last year.

Postvention is the term given to activities that assist those who have been bereaved by suicide to cope with what has happened. The event heard accounts from those with lived experience on the impact of suicide and how postvention support, both practical and emotional, received from the CHUMS service, really helped during the loss of their loved one.

Dr Emma Wadey, Chief Nursing Officer, speaking at the event

Nikki Willmott, Head of Safer Care, and Chair of the Support for the Bereaved by Suicide Group shared:

“This important event reflected on the vital work of the CHUMS staff and volunteers.

“Evidence suggests that family, friends and acquaintances who are bereaved by suicide may have a risk of dying by suicide that is up to 3 times higher than the general population. Compassionate, effective and timely support for them is essential.

“Local authorities, police, national government, coroners, the NHS, schools and universities, and VCSE organisations all have an essential role in providing this support”.

For further information about the CHUMS service and how individuals can be signposted to suicide bereavement support, please visit here.

Related Pages

Support for people bereaved by suicide