Grief support resources in the UK

Grief affects everyone differently and there is no “right” way to grieve or timeline for healing. There is no single path through loss, whether it’s recent or long ago, sudden or expected; it is  a deeply personal experience.

The good news is, there are coping mechanisms you can use to help you heal, and there are many forms of support available in the UK.

From professional services to peer-led communities and self-guided resources, you don’t have to face grief alone and confused.

Below, we have put together a guide on the different styles of trusted grief support resources, so you can find what feels right for you and start to heal at your own pace.

Online grief support

Online support can be a real lifeline, especially if you prefer privacy, flexibility or you are not ready to attend groups in person yet. Some of the most widely recognised grief support sites include: 

• • Sue Ryder – Offers online bereavement support, practical advice and emotional guidance for those suffering loss. Their resources are gentle, accessible, and grounded in real-life experiences. 

• • The Good Grief Trust – Acts as a central hub for grief support in the UK. Their website signposts hundreds of specialist organisations, local services, helplines, and peer groups, so it’s often a good place to start.

• • NHS Bereavement Support – The NHS provides some information on coping with bereavement and links to local services, GPs and mental health support resources where needed.

Specialist grief support

Some losses carry specific challenges, and if you’re experiencing this type of grief, you may benefit from specialist understanding and care. Some of the biggest specialist areas include: 

• • Child Bereavement UK – Supports children, young people, parents and families affected by the death of a child or bereavement in childhood.

• • Winston’s Wish – A leading charity focused on supporting grieving children and young people, offering helplines, resources and tailored programmes.

• • SANDS (Stillbirth & Neonatal Death Society) – Provides specialist support for anyone affected by stillbirth or the death of a baby, including parents, families and healthcare professionals.

• • Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS) – Offers peer support, local groups, and resources for people who have lost someone to suicide, recognising the unique complexity of this type of grief.

Community and peer support

For some people, simply searching for resources online is not enough and sharing grief with others who understand what they are going through can reduce feelings of isolation. Some of the best ways to see support in your local community include: 

• • Local bereavement groups – Many areas have informal or charity-run bereavement groups where people can meet, talk, listen or simply be present.

• • Churches, community centres and hospices
    Similarly, key local establishments may run free or low-cost grief support groups, open to people of all beliefs or none.

• • Hospice bereavement services – Some hospices will offer bereavement support not only to families of patients but also to the wider community.

• • Social media groups – It might not be the first place you think of, but online peer groups can offer connection and understanding, particularly for specific types of loss. But remember, it’s important to choose moderated, respectful spaces.

Counselling services and wider mental health support

Grief can sometimes become overwhelming or connect with anxiety, depression or trauma. Professional support may help you to overcome these challenges, particularly if you’re looking for a qualified counsellor or talking therapy services. Some helpful mental health resources and counselling services include: 

• • The National Counselling Society – Provides information and access to accredited counsellors.

• • Counselling Directory – Helps you find qualified therapists across the UK, with filters for bereavement and grief specialisms.

• • Every Mind Matters – An NHS initiative offering practical mental health advice and tools.

• • CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) – Supports people struggling with mental health and suicidal thoughts, particularly men.

• • Mind – Offers mental health information, advocacy and local support services.

• • SANE – Provides emotional support and information for people affected by mental illness.

• • Samaritans – Available 24/7 for anyone struggling to cope or feeling overwhelmed, regardless of whether they are in crisis.

Self-guided support

If you prefer to explore grief privately or alongside other self-supporting, self-guided resources, these can be comforting and empowering. Some helpful ways to support yourself include: 

• • Online articles and toolkits – Cruse and Sue Ryder both offer well-regarded online grief articles and practical toolkits.

• • YouTube videos – For example, my latest series of videos on death, grief, loss and bereavement. 

• • Grief podcasts and UK-based blogs – Many are linked via The Good Grief Trust and allow you to hear real stories, reflections, and coping strategies.

• • Books commonly recommended by UK Services
    
    • • It’s OK That You’re Not OK – Megan Devine
    • • Grief Works – Julia Samuel (UK-based psychotherapist)
    • • A Heart That Works – Rob Delaney
    • • Motherless Daughters – Hope Edelman
    • • The Way Through the Woods – Long Litt Woon
    • • Healing After Loss – Martha Whitmore Hickman

Talking therapy

Speaking with a local counsellor can provide a safe, confidential space for you to explore your grief, understand your emotions, and begin healing in a way that feels right for you. Many therapists specialise in bereavement and will adapt their approach to your individual needs.

Remember, grief may be a deeply personal experience, but you don’t have to go through it alone. If you’d like someone to talk to about death, grief, loss and bereavement, I offer talking therapy in a safe, comfortable space. 

If you’d like to know more about the counselling services I offer, please don’t hesitate to get in touch today.