Suicide Bereavement Support
Losing someone through suicide or a sudden unexplained death can be one of the most difficult and overwhelming experiences a person can face. Alongside grief, you may be left with unanswered questions, complex emotions, and feelings that can be hard to make sense of.
At Shropshire Mental Health Support, we understand that everyone’s experience of bereavement is unique. There is no right or wrong way to grieve, and no set timeline for healing. Our person-centred Suicide Bereavement Service is here to provide compassionate support, practical guidance, and a listening ear whenever you feel ready to reach out.
We support anyone living in Shropshire who has been affected by suicide or unexplained death, including family members, friends, colleagues, neighbours, and others who feel impacted by their loss.
Our Bereavement Support Officer works alongside individuals and within the wider community to understand their circumstances and determine what direct support or signposting might benefit them. This may include:
- Emotional support and providing a safe, non-judgmental space to talk
- Practical guidance following a death by suicide
- Support in understanding the processes that may take place after a suicide
- Information and signposting to other services, including counselling and specialist support
- Help to identify coping strategies and sources of support within your community
- Presenting service information to local businesses, education centres and at community networking events when a bereavement by suicide has taken place
Our service is not time-limited. People access support when they need it, whether that is shortly after a bereavement or months, or even years, later. We are here to support you at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
A message from Karen, our Bereavement Support Officer:
It is a privilege to support people during some of the most traumatic, distressing and life-changing circumstances they may experience. My role is to provide compassionate, person-centred support, helping individuals feel heard, understood and connected to the help they need during their bereavement journey
How to access the service
You can self-refer by contacting the number below and leaving contact details. Or someone can refer on your behalf if you have consented to this e.g. GP, police or other support services/agencies.
We aim to respond to enquiries and referrals within 72 hours.
Email: [email protected]
Contact number: 07483 906 788
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral?
Yes, however we accept self-referrals from individuals so you may access the service directly, or you may be referred by another professional or organisation if you wish.
Is the service confidential?
Yes. Conversations are treated confidentially. If there are circumstances where information needs to be shared to keep someone safe, this will be discussed with you wherever possible.
What if I’m not a close family member?
You do not need to be a family member to access support. Suicide can affect many people, including friends, colleagues, neighbours, classmates, and members of the wider community.
Is there a cost for the service?
No. The Suicide Bereavement Service is free to access for eligible residents of Shropshire.
Do you support children?
Yes. We support children from the age of 10, but parental consent must be given. For children under 16, referrals can be made by parents, GP services, and schools.
Is there a waiting period before I can access support?
No. You can contact the service whenever you feel ready. Some people seek support immediately after a bereavement, while others reach out weeks, months, or years later.