A SPECIALIST bereavement service has been set-up to support families in the district who have lost a loved one due to coronavirus.

Several organisations have joined forces to form the Bradford Counselling Collaborative.

The initiative, being funded by NHS Bradford District and Craven Clinical Commissioning Group, will also offer support for other types of loss such as employment and income.

Professionals from the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy will provide grief and loss counselling.

And training will be given to 50 volunteers to help with signposting and the management of loss.

People in need of assistance can contact a helpline and following an assessment, they will be put in touch with a support volunteer.

Dr Angela Moulson, a GP with particular interest in mental health and wellbeing, said: “It is so important that people get the help and support they need for grief and loss. This is especially important during this difficult time when we know that more people and families will be experiencing loss.

“Whether it is a loved one, the loss of a job or income, or even the loss of freedoms which helped to maintain positive mental health and wellbeing, counselling services are here to help.

“The Bradford Counselling Collaborative is available for everyone who lives in Bradford district and Craven. This includes people of all ages and faiths, who may have different experiences or approaches to grief and loss.”

Jo Holmes – the children, young people and families lead at the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy – praises the project.

She said: “It is a great example of counselling networks coming together with a shared vision to look at how to best meet the needs of local communities.

“Providing a joined-up approach to plan for the grief and loss experienced by Covid-19 demonstrates a true collaborative approach, ensuring standards and equality of access to much-needed community support.”

Among the organisations involved is Step 2, a children and young people’s counselling service.

Pauline Mullarkey, for Step 2, said: “It’s wonderful that the NHS recognises how counselling can support the Covid-19 response. This is an exciting opportunity to work with a diverse, talented group of voluntary and community-sector counselling providers.”

To contact the Bradford Counselling Collaborative, call 01274 594594.