The death of a loved one is a very difficult time. The organisations listed below can provide practical or emotional support if you have been bereaved, are dying or thinking about your death.

• I have been bereaved
  
• Help for the dying
  
• General information
  

I have been bereaved

The following organisations offer advice and support if you have been recently bereaved.

Child death helpline

The Child Death Helpline is a confidential helpline for anyone affected by the death of a child from pre-birth to adult. It is staffed by volunteers who have suffered the loss of their own child. It gives you a chance to talk with someone sympathetic to the situation.

Cruse - Bereavement care

Cruse - Bereavement Care offers help through its local branches, providing both individual and group counselling, opportunities for social contact and practical advice. A list of related publications and newsletters is also available.

Samaritans

The Samaritans offers a 24-hour befriending service to people who are in despair, including those who have been bereaved or who feel suicidal.

Winston's Wish

Winston's Wish provides help and support to children or young people following death of a parent or sibling.

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Help for the dying

The following organisations may be able to offer you advice and support if you are terminally ill.

British Organ Donor Society

The British Organ Donor Society is a self-help and support group for families of donors and recipients of donated organs. It publishes an information pack and runs a commemorative tree scheme for those who have given and received donated organs.

The Cremation Society

The Cremation Society can provide information on cremation.

The Natural Death Centre

The Natural Death Centre encourages the discussion of death and dying. It helps people to prepare for death emotionally but also practically.

Hospice information service

The Hospice Information Service provides information about hospice care. You can also find a listing of hospices in your area.

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General information

Age NI has helpful guides including:

• formalities after death,
• arranging a funeral,
• standard form including instructions and details needed by relatives after a death.

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