New website launched to help improve bereavement support in Northern Ireland

Categories: Care.

The website, developed by the the Health and Social Care (HSC) Bereavement Network, provides information, guidance and resources for those who care for and support people around the time of death and bereavement.

The aim of the website is to support staff to deliver a person-centred, high-quality, consistent approach to care of individuals and their families at this very difficult time.

Bereaved people who access the site will be signposted to organisations that provide advice and support.

Launching the website in Stormont on Wednesday, Health Minister Simon Hamilton said: “Sadly, each of us will be faced by the loss of a loved one at some time in our lives. Each loss leaves behind grieving families and friends, therefore compassionate, effective support frameworks should be in place to help them.

“I feel strongly that the health and social care sector should do its utmost to support and help all those in this situation, and I am confident that the introduction of this new website will go a long way to improve the experiences of everyone affected by the death of a loved one, whether this happens suddenly or, in the latter days of his or her life.”

The Minister went onto acknowledge that, while the standard of bereavement care and support for people who are close to death and their loved ones is high, there is always room for improvement.

He said: “Raising awareness and understanding of palliative and end of life care, including the need for support for families and carers into bereavement, is vital if we are to raise standards of care. I believe that this website will play an important role in supporting this.”

The HSC Bereavement Network website can be accessed at www.hscbereavementnetwork.hscni.net

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