Bereavement Services: Support to Help Through Difficult Times

“I support the bereaved within my own work, however it is immensely reassuring that when I come to a hurdle or an area outside of my knowledge that the National Bereavement Service are there to support both myself and the bereaved person I am working with. They are always prompt in their communication with me and in picking up referrals and I am assured they have the knowledge and skills to support with a range of things, including the complexities of probate and legal issues which can be a huge a source of anxiety for a lot of bereaved people.

Having this service is immensely valuable and I cannot praise it enough.”

“My father recently died quite suddenly on an air ambulance in U.K. Airspace. What ensued was a protracted legal tangle between the U.K. and Germany as to who was responsible to register my fathers death due to a conflict of laws. The NBS was a true life saver as they have a legal panel with access to specialist counsel for unique cases such as this. Before I found NBS, I had spoken to half a dozen other charities in the field as well as numerous government offices all to no avail. Thanks to the NBS locating me an expert solicitor team, I was able to get my fathers death successfully registered and a death certificate issued. We can now begin the rest of the process to settle his affairs. I wish I had found NBS much earlier on as it would have saved months of stress. They should be your first thought when someone close passes away. I am so thankful that they take the practical support so seriously as most charities focus on counselling and the emotional aspect only. NBS truly does it all!”

“My mother died recently of natural causes, which has taken a while to register with us as a family.

There have been several practicalities to deal with, such as the management of her estate, for which we needed guidance. The NBS was able to advise on conveyancing, connecting us with Adroit Legal Services’ panel of solicitors through which we were able to hire an expert who has supported us every step of the way.

The NBS’s helpline and its network of partners is a brilliant resource, and I would recommend it to other people going through similar circumstances.”

“When my brother was killed, it was extremely traumatic for our entire family. We were in a great sense of shock and in need of support to progress all the practical elements associated with his death.

The NBS team explained the probate process clearly and concisely and helped us find a solicitor when we were overwhelmed with options. In the months that have followed, we’ve received an extremely helpful, excellent service from the homicide team and legal teams who work in partnership with the NBS.

I would highly recommend their service. Anyone who uses it will not be disappointed when it comes to advice, efficiency and professionalism.”

“My wife died earlier this year, following a short illness. Her passing changed our entire family dynamic and left our children feeling very unsettled.

We were all struggling to get through the day, so I reached out to the NBS via its online chat function. The advisor was extremely helpful, supportive and comforting and was able to signpost me to both free and paid for counselling services. They were so attentive to our needs, even following up with me the day after to see how we were all doing.

That listening ear, as well as the advice on how to seek the appropriate professional help for my loved ones, was invaluable. I really felt like someone cared at a time when I felt so alone.”

“During an undoubtedly challenging time, I reached out to the National Bereavement Service and was fortunate enough to speak with a lady named Jean. Her compassion, understanding, and practical guidance were immediately reassuring. Without pressure or obligation, Jean provided me with valuable advice and useful links, guiding me away from big corporates that merely wanted my money and towards more reasonable options.

Upon her recommendation, I consulted with James Shingleton of Brearleys Solicitors, a solicitor known for his knowledge, professionalism, and better pricing compared to larger firms. James was thoroughly on the ball, promptly providing me with the information I needed to move forward. I felt entirely comfortable entrusting him with the task of applying for the Letter of Administration (probate). His suggestion for an asset search further proved invaluable, ensuring that all assets in my late brother’s estate were known to me.

The service offered by the National Bereavement Service, particularly Jean’s assistance, was nothing short of excellent. They provided the support, guidance, and professional connections I needed, making a complex process far more manageable. Their integrity and empathy are highly commendable, and I wholeheartedly recommend their services.”