'People have to navigate through their grief'

Bereavement support charities are calling for more funding in light of what they call the "terrible toll of 100,000 deaths from Covid-19".

They say many families have been unable to be with loved ones as they died or gather to support one another. They argue there has been "huge demand" for counselling and guidance but some providers lack sufficient resources.

The government says it is committed to ensuring those who are grieving have access to the support they need. In a letter to the Health Secretary Matt Hancock, and mental health minister, Nadine Dorries, charities call for some of the £500 million funding allocated to mental health in England in the November spending review to be used to support the bereaved.

The request has come from the National Bereavement Alliance, which represents a range of charities. Members include CRUSE Bereavement Care, Support after Suicide Partnership and AtALoss.

The letter quotes academic research suggesting more than 80% of bereaved people since the start of the pandemic have had limited contact with family and friends and two-thirds have experienced social isolation or loneliness.

They say there are long waiting lists for support but some services providing advice and guidance are not adequately funded.

The alliance argues deaths have been heavily felt in disadvantaged and deprived communities where there is a greater need for assistance.

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Source: BBC News, 27 January 2021