The loss of a loved one is one of the hardest things that any of us have to go through. Though there is not always a quick fix, we do have some advice on how to manage the emotional and practical upheaval caused by bereavement, which you can find in our Guide to Death and Grief.
At this strange and difficult time, it is important to let others help and support you. There are many organisations in Essex that provide specialist support to people who have been bereaved, including counselling, group therapy and telephone support.
There are also a number of Essex bereavement support groups – an opportunity to spend time and talk with people going through something similar, which many people seek comfort from.
On this page you will be guided through the organisations that are offering their support to bereaved people in Essex, and how to contact them.
Essex Bereavement Support Services
Bereavement Support from Hospices
Some of the hospices in Essex offer bereavement support to all people in their community, even if they are not associated with the hospice. More information about these hospices and how to contact them can be found below.
St. Helena, North Essex
St Helena Hospice in Colchester offers a range of support services to all people who have been bereaved in North Essex, regardless of the cause or location of death. They will tailor their services, including counselling and group sessions, to your needs. You can refer yourself for their services using this Online Form, or by calling them.- Telephone: 01206 845 566
- Visit Website
St. Luke's, Thurrock
St Luke’s Hospice runs the Dove Community Counselling Service, which is delivered from their Thurrock hospice for those local to Basildon, Thurrock, Wickford and Billericay. Their services are free and include 1-to-1 counselling, group sessions and bereavement social groups. You can be referred by a healthcare professional, or you can refer yourself by calling them on the number provided below.
- Telephone: 01268 524973
- Visit Website
Farleigh, Mid-Essex
Farleigh’s adult bereavement services are available to anyone in Mid Essex who has been recently bereaved. Their ‘Circle’ service includes 1-to-1 support, group sessions and telephone support counselling. To access their service you need to complete an online referral. You can also get in touch with them on the details provided below for further information.
- Telephone: 01245 457300
- Email: [email protected]
- Visit Website
CRUSE Bereavement
CRUSE is the UK’s largest bereavement charity, providing support to bereaved people across all of Essex. They offer a range of services to bereaved people in person, over the phone and online, including expert information, advice and drop-in sessions.
- Telephone: 0808 808 1677
- Visit Website
AgeWell East
AgeWell East have a dedicated bereavement team who can provide a listening ear and help direct you to the support you can find in North East Essex. They also run in-person Bereavement Support Groups across Essex, which you can find more information about through their website.
- Telephone: 0300 37 33 333
- Visit Website
Essex Bereavement Support Groups
Many people find bereavement support groups to be a source of comfort and support. They can help you to talk openly and share experiences with people who have a mutual understanding.
Dove Bereavement Social Groups
St Luke’s hospice runs Bereavement Support Groups from their Thurrock hospice. Their meetings take place during the evenings, daytime and weekends, meaning there should be one that works for you. They are always run by people who have experienced bereavement.
To find out about current social groups meet-up times and locations use the contact information below.
- Telephone: 01268 524973
- Visit Website
Farleigh Bereavement Help Points
The Farleigh Hospice runs several bereavement support groups across Mid-Essex. These are regular, relaxed drop-in groups for anyone bereaved in the area, where you can share a hot drink, meet people, discuss experiences and access the best available help, advice and support. Get in touch with them or complete an online referral for more details on what is available.
- Telephone: 01245 457300
- Email: [email protected]
- Online Referral
- Visit Website
Bennett's 'New Era' Bereavement Support Group
Bennett’s funeral directors have run the ‘New Era’ bereavement support group in Brentwood since 2007. It is a chance for bereaved people to discuss their thoughts, experiences and exchange support with people in similar positions. There are also members of Bennett’s Staff on hand should anyone need to talk with them one-on-one. They also organise day trips and outings for their members.
- Telephone: 01277 210104
- Visit Website
