Who is it for?
Wakefield Hospice Bereavement Drop In Service is for anyone who has been bereaved and who has been known to Wakefield Hospice as a carer. For example, you may be a family member or a friend of someone who has been a patient of our Drop In Service or an inpatient who has sadly died. You may have been a carer/relative attending the Drop In Service in your own right but who is now bereaved.
When is it open? When can I come?
The Bereavement Drop In Service is open on Mondays (excluding Bank Holidays) from 1pm - 7pm.
What if I can't come at these times?
If you would like some bereavement support but are unable to come at these times, ask to speak with Sarah Nayler, our Bereavement Services Co-ordinator, and she can help arrange support at a time that is more convenient.
What Happens at the Bereavement Drop In?
Many different things happen and you can join in the things that are right for you. It is a chance to meet and talk with other people who are going through something similar to yourself.
Trained staff are available for one to one support or counselling. Our complementary therapist can offer treatments to help with anxiety, stress, difficulty sleeping and the general sadness of bereavement. There is also a regular relaxation session which helps people learn relaxation techniques to use at home as well.
Our artist is at hand to help those who want to do something creative. Our Chaplain facilitates a regular service with prayers for those who are interested. She is also available for spiritual support. Sometimes people just enjoy sitting and chatting in a supportive and friendly atmosphere.
What if I don't want to be in a group?
It is perfectly okay to sit quietly on your own, but there are always members of the team who are there to support you or just sit quietly with you. We have two conservatories and a pleasant outside sitting area which can be used if people want or need a bit of space.
Do I have to make an appointment?
You are welcome to Drop In anytime between 1pm - 7pm and you don't need an appointment for this. Appointments are needed for the Complementary Therapies and Counselling. You can arrange this with the team. The relaxation sessions are at 2pm and the service/prayers are at 3:30pm.
Is there a charge for attending or for the treatments?
We do not charge for any of our services or for tea or coffee but you are welcome to make a donation. Sandwiches and other refreshments are available to purchase from reception.
I think I would like to attend but feel nervous about walking in alone
This is a very natural feeling and there will always be someone to meet and greet you when you first come. On your first visit we will sit somewhere privately and talk with you about your situation. We will help you to settle in.
We can arrange to meet you in the car park if you wish and come in to the Hospice with you. Just give us a ring on the Hospice telephone number and ask to speak to either Sarah Nayler or a member of the Drop In Team.
How many times can I come? How long can I come for?
We do not limit the number of sessions or length of time you may attend. We are here to help you in your bereavement, as you find your feet again. However, as you feel stronger and manage the adjustments needed to live with your loss, so you will no longer need us.
How will I know when I don't need to come anymore?
We cannot be a 'forever service' - everyone's experience of bereavement is different and so their needs are different. We aim to help you to develop coping strategies, through emotional support and counselling, through creative activities and spiritual support, relaxation and complementary therapies. Some people find it is helpful to meet and talk with others who are going through something similar. Whatever your situation, we will discuss your needs with you and together develop a plan support that is suitable.
If you are someone who comes regularly we will periodically catch up with you to see how our support is helping you and how you are coping and we may suggest changes if appropriate.
Some people find it helpful to come every week for a while and the later just now and again, perhaps on a bad day or during a difficult time, eg. around an anniversary or other significant date. Others come specifically for counselling, spiritual support or complementary therapy treatments. some people come early on in their bereavement and others after some time. Everyone is different and we try to be as flexible as we can be to support you and your individual needs.
Think of us as a 'stepping stone' or a means to an end, where you begin to adjust to living with your loss and finding new meanings in your life.
We hope this has answered some of your questions and explains a bit more about the Drop In Service but please don't hesitate to speak with any of the team if you have any queries.
You can Drop In or speak to Carol Vaux, Chris Parker or Sarah Nayler by telephone. They can be contacted on the Hospice telephone number - 01924 213900.
