Cruse Seeking Volunteers

The death of a loved one can be devastating; but one organisation that can help anyone suffering bereavement to understand their grief and cope with the loss is Cruse Bereavement Care.

Each year, more than 100,000 people who have been affected by a death contact one of Cruse’s 138 branches for information and advice. Cruse is the leading charity specialising in bereavement in the UK and offers all help free of charge, meaning it relies on the generosity of individuals and grant-making bodies to give their time and financial support.

The local branch, Cruse Bedfordshire, is looking for volunteer bereavement counsellors to help adults in the Bedfordshire area who are struggling to face the future after a death.

Volunteers are essential to Cruse being able to continue its good work. Volunteer bereavement counsellors work in a supervision group led by an experienced bereavement counsellor, visiting clients in their own homes or helping at one of three drop-in centres in Bedfordshire. Formal qualifications or previous experience aren’t required, all necessary training and support will be provided. The charity wants willing individuals who are good listeners, interested in helping bereaved people and have time to offer.

"People come to Cruse because someone they love has died and volunteer bereavement counsellors help people through this difficult time. Volunteering is not only tremendously rewarding but also gives volunteers opportunities for personal growth and development,” says Janet Brennan, Volunteering Adviser at Volunteer Centre South Bedfordshire.

To find out more about becoming a volunteer bereavement counsellor or to explore other volunteering opportunities that are available in South Bedfordshire, contact the Lucy, Janet or Rebecca at Volunteer Centre South Bedfordshire on tel. 01525 850559 for a Volunteering Directory or to arrange an informal chat.