The presence of the COVID-19 pandemic has meant a change in the way we usually deal with the loss of a loved one. The death of a loved one can be a difficult and distressing time. During COVID-19 many of the normal religious, cultural and familial traditions have to be restricted because of the public health measures currently in place. These restrictions will not be easy and those of us bereaved will need support now more than ever.
This should not mean that people cannot grieve, talk about or share memories and stories of loved ones. Coping with the loss of a loved one is one of life’s biggest challenges and every one of us grieve differently. People dealing with loss during this period will need the same emotional support and the same love that they would need in normal circumstances. We will have to find new ways also to express our sympathy for those bereaved.
The Employee Assistance Officer (EAO) is aware of the difficulties experienced through grief and is available to offer both practical and emotional support to bereaved staff. Why not contact the CSEAS?
Resources:
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Useful LinksCSEAS Bereavement Coping with Grief and Loss Leaflet CSEAS Personal Affairs Checklist Personal Memories of the Deceased page PeoplePoint’s Bereavement Leave Information page Applying for Bereavement Leave in the Civil Service Circular 01/2017 Bereavement Leave in the Civil Service Finite Lives – A report on how the State deals with issues relating to end of life |
www.bereaved.ie – An initiative of the Irish Hospice Foundation provides advice and information for bereaved people, those supporting them and professionals working with them. Anam Cara – Supporting parents after bereavement Citizens Information – Death and Bereavement www.ias.ie – The Irish Association of Suicidology www.hospicefoundation.ie – The Irish Hospice Foundation |