When you lose someone close to you it can be both traumatic and upsetting. But many of us don’t realise that in addition to dealing with the emotional impact of a loved one’s death, there can often be a lot of practical work to do as well, much of which may be unfamiliar. This guest post from the National Bereavement Service explains the ways in which they can help to support you and your loved ones at a difficult time.
WHO ARE THE NATIONAL BEREAVEMENT SERVICE?
The National Bereavement Service is a not-for-profit organisation providing practical support and guidance for bereaved people following the death of a loved one.
WHAT SERVICES DOES THE NBS PROVIDE?
The NBS can help you with any element relating to a bereavement. From practical advice before and after a funeral, to help with unfamiliar legal issues, which can often be challenging and stressful.
They also work with a variety of organisations and can signpost you to local and national services for bereavement counselling and other services which may be useful. They have access to a large network including hospitals and GPs throughout the UK.
The service is provided free of charge, there is a helpline (the number is at the bottom of this post) and a wealth of useful information on the website, including the topics below.
Simply click on the pictures below to access the information on the NBS website.
WHAT TO DO WHEN SOMEONE DIES
For practical advice on what to do when someone dies, including guidance on registering the death and applying for any benefits that the family may be entitled to. Click the 'Practical Steps' picture below to download a simple checklist of what to do following a bereavement.
HELP AND ADVICE ON PLANNING A FUNERAL
Including help with repatriation (where someone has died abroad) and guidance on dealing with the coroner, if needed.
WHO TO NOTIFY FOLLOWING A DEATH
Including advice on the Tell Us Once service to stop state allowances or benefits, the Death Notification Service portal to notify banks and building societies, and dealing with suppressing mail in the name of the deceased.
WILLS, PROBATE AND LEGAL MATTERS
The NBS can provide help with finding a legal professional to deal with probate and guidance for people who wish to deal with probate themselves. They can also help with financial and tax advice, estate planning and advice on wills and their validity.
You can download the National Bereavement Service's Practical Guide on what to do when someone dies here.
CONTACT THE NBS HELPLINE
The National Bereavement Service understands that every bereavement is different and they can help you with your individual circumstances, even if it is simply a listening ear and someone to talk to.
You can call the National Bereavement Service's free helpline on 0800 024 6121 Monday to Friday from 9am-6pm and Saturday from 10am - 1pm. Alternatively, visit the website which offers a wealth of information at www.theNBS.org
