Support individuals who are bereaved

Unit aim

This unit is aimed at those working in a wide range of settings. It provides the learner with the knowledge and skills required to support individuals who are bereaved.

Outcome 1 Understand the effects of bereavement on individuals

1. describe how an individual may feel immediately following the death of a loved one

2. analyse how the bereavement journey may be different for different individuals.

Outcome 2 Understand principles for supporting individuals who are bereaved

1. compare the key points of theories of bereavement that assist in supporting individuals who are bereaved

2. explain the importance of acting in accordance with an individual’s culture and beliefs when providing support for bereavement

3. explain the importance of empathy in supporting a bereaved individual.

Outcome 3 Support individuals to express their response to loss

1. create an environment where the individual has privacy to express their emotions

2. demonstrate active listening skills to support the individual to express their thoughts, feelings and distress.

Outcome 4 Support individuals who are bereaved

1. assess the individual’s level of distress and their capacity for resilience

2. agree a programme of support with the individual and others

3. carry out own role within the support programme

4. support the individual to identify any changes they may need to make as a result of their loss

5. explain the importance of working at the individual’s pace during the bereavement journey

6. support the individual to manage conflicting emotions, indecision or fear of the future.

Outcome 5 Understand the role of specialist agencies in supporting individuals who are bereaved

1. compare the roles of specialist agencies in supporting individuals who are bereaved

2. describe how to assess whether a bereaved individual requires specialist support

3. explain the importance of establishing agreement with the individual about making a referral to a specialist agency.

Outcome 6 Manage own feelings when providing support for individuals who are bereaved

1. identify ways to manage own feelings while providing support for an individual who is bereaved

2. use support systems to help manage own feelings.