Contact the Helpline 604-738-9950
M-F 9AM - 5PM
M-F 9AM - 5PM
The BC Bereavement Helpline would like to address the grief that is impacting communities on many fronts as a result of the Covid-19 crisis. Many people are feeling deep grief and loss over the death of their loved ones due to cancer, heart disease, substance use and many other causes. Unfortunately, they are also feeling the loss of their ability to grieve those loved ones in the way they would wish. Because of Covid-19, extended family and friends cannot be invited to attend funerals. The bereaved are not even allowed to hug their grieving loved ones.
This crisis has led to many secondary losses such as daily routine, a sense of connection, job security, social gatherings, family gatherings, as well as immediate and long-terms goals. The future has become largely unknown and unknowable. Now, more than ever, we need the support of our community.
At the best of times a death can feel isolating, but even more so during Covid-19. Fortunately, community members are stepping up to support bereaved individuals. For instance, funeral homes are starting to live stream services. An increase in our volunteer numbers is another sign of the community’s desire to help.
The loss of security, predictability, and even life is hitting everyone hard. Let us remember to be gentle, to connect meaningfully with one another, and to care for our hearts however they may be grieving in these very trying times. And remember that if you need us, the BC Bereavement Helpline is here for you.
Our Helpline is still open Monday – Friday, 9am to 5pm. Our trained volunteers and staff are available to provide compassionate listening or to refer telephone/virtual support options available in your community. Please call 604-738-9950, toll-free at 1-877-779-2223 or by email to contact@bcbh.ca.
With deep care for all,
From the BC Bereavement Helpline.
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We wish to thank the Sovereign Order of St. John Jerusalem, Vancouver Commandery for their support.
Sometimes we don't know what exactly to say to a friend or loved one experiencing a loss.
Here's a guide with comments which grievers find helpful following a loss.
For 30 years, BCBH has operated the Helpline, our telephone or email-based grief support system open 9am - 5pm, Monday through Friday
The BCBH specializes in helping those who have experienced traumatic loss (through homicide or suicide) offering facilitated homicide and suicide grief support groups, sudden death trainings for victim services professionals and special events
The BCBH is committed to increasing public understanding of bereavement as a normal life process through education, advocacy, networking, and dissemination of information