How We Help
Insights Bereavement Listening Service launched in Nantwich and rural areas in October 2021. The Co-ordinator of Insights, Maureen Coulter, brings a wide breadth of experience to the organisation, most recently as a volunteer with Cheshire East Council, co-ordinating a team of volunteer telephone listeners during the lockdowns of 2020/21. It was this experience that brought about the realisation that people were experiencing extra distress in their bereavement due to the lack of support and the withdrawal of the usual rituals around loss, such as funerals and wakes.
In consultation with Frances Underhill of the End of Life Partnership, a plan was formed to launch a local service, provided by volunteers, which would offer 1 to 1 listening support for those suffering with grief, due to loss and bereavement. The service is free to all over 18s and clients may self-refer or be referred in via Social Prescribers.
Maureen’s background as a counsellor, trainer and supervisor contributes to the service, as volunteers receive training in listening skills and bereavement awareness, as well as access to safeguarding training and more specialist bereavement training. All volunteers are DBS checked and are well-supported – they attend 6-weekly supervision sessions, led by a counselling supervisor and Insights operates an ‘open door’ policy, with reference to concerns or worries volunteers may have about clients.
Bereavement affects us all at some point in our lives. We need to allow ourselves to grieve and to give ourselves time to work through our thoughts and feelings.
Maybe you want to talk about your experience. Maybe you are feeling lost or anxious. Maybe you feel friends and family don't understand.
Sometimes, talking to someone who is not a family member or a friend, but someone who will really listen and try to understand can be a great help.
What is a Listener?
A listener is someone who is trained to listen to how you are feeling, without interruption, judgement or direction.
Listeners will help you to understand your feelings and work through them at your own pace.
A Listener is not a counsellor, but they can signpost you to further help and support if required.
We offer one-to-one confidential listening in a safe and supportive space with a trained volunteer.
We offer up to 8 sessions (more if required) all at a time and place that suits you.
Let our volunteers walk with you through your healing journey.
For further Information:
