Ian runs an IT support business but has been a Bereavement Telephone Supporter for seven years, developing his skills as he works with people one-to-one.
“I give around two hours a week, mainly working from home. Most of the people I phone are working and, therefore, are only available to talk in the evenings or at weekends. It’s very hard when two people had been looking forward to things they would do together, perhaps in retirement, and then one partner dies.”
This is a situation that Ian often finds himself talking about with someone who has been recently bereaved.
“A person suddenly finds a hole in a life which they had defined around their relationship as a couple. It’s hardly surprising when they say they’re really struggling.
“Making contact with people experiencing bereavement is so important. I remember one person who said, ‘I would never have reached out for help, but now you’ve contacted me I realise I do need to talk,’ and another who was so very upset, but because of my phone call was able to reach out and talk with her family.”
If you're interested in becoming a bereavement volunteer click here for more details about the role and how to apply. If you'd like to find our more about this or our other available volunteering roles, call us on
0114 235 7542 or email
[email protected].