South West London Bereavement Services and Support: Gaps Workshop Report
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Healthwatch Kingston (HWK) and Kingston Voluntary Action (KVA) were commissioned by NHS South West London to undertake a community engagement pilot project in 2022, exploring people’s experiences of bereavement and support services. The report from this pilot identified gaps, leading to the commissioning of a Phase 2 Gaps Initiative aimed at engaging groups not included in the initial pilot.
The South West London Bereavement Services Community Engagement initiative revealed a critical need for expanded, inclusive, and well-publicised bereavement services. The findings highlight the importance of acknowledging diverse grief experiences, addressing systematic barriers, and ensuring longterm support.
To build a more effective bereavement care system, services should consider:
- Expanding awareness: Strengthen outreach efforts through GP surgeries, community centres, social media, and public awareness campaigns.
- Improving accessibility: Reduce waiting times, increase face-to-face support, and ensure bereavement services operate beyond standard working hours.
- Enhancing cultural sensitivity: Develop bereavement services that respect and incorporate diverse mourning practices.
- Strengthening youth and family support: Introduce bereavement education in schools and offer structured support for young people.
- Providing practical and emotional guidance: Ensure clear, easily accessible information on legal, financial, and administrative matters after bereavement.
- Supporting community-led bereavement groups: Fund and expand peer support networks and bereavement-friendly community spaces.