Coronavirus: New nurse-led bereavement service begins in Peterborough

People who have experienced the death of a relative or friend from Covid-19 will be able to access fast-track nursing support and counselling.

This service will also be available for bereaved relatives and friends of people who have died from other conditions during this time.

The service has been funded by Cambridgeshire’s Coronavirus Community Fund and was awarded to Prodigal Collective, a local not-for-profit company that seeks to support people during times of bereavement.

Shan Barcroft, who has set up the service, said: “Covid-19 has hit the friends and relatives of people who have died from it hard. Deaths have been unexpected and sudden and often loved ones have been unable to be with their relatives when they die.

“The bereaved are often vulnerable themselves, self-isolating, and current funeral restrictions can compound these feelings of isolation and loss. The Bereavement Support service is designed to give intense nursing support during this period.”

The project will work closely with Peterborough City Hospital, care homes, funeral directors, religious leaders and celebrants to offer support to those in need.

Individuals can also self-refer or refer a friend or relative. Agencies can also make referrals.

For further information, or if you are interested in accessing the service, visit www.prodigal.org.uk/bsp/nurse or contact Shan at [email protected] or by calling 07766135820.