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Research into Practice Workplace Support for Bereaved People Bereavement is an experience which is likely to happen to all of us at some time in our lives. It can be a devastating event, shattering confidence and taking time to recover from. As each of us is a unique human being, our reactions will vary, some recovering more quickly than others. Recently, a research article reported the findings of a study of bereaved parents’ experience on returning to work after the death of their child from suicide ₍₁₎. Whilst it focuses on a particular group of people, the recommendations could be useful in meeting the needs of any workers who have suffered a significant loss, and returned to work. Thus the authors’ findings have been adapted to guide managers and co- workers, when any person within their organisation, is bereaved. From the findings: What was helpful from Management ? •        Paid leave until chosen time of return • Giving phased return & reduced duties • Initial flexibility in working hours • Recognition of impact on self and work performance • Keeping pressure off for first year • Making them feel respected and needed What was unhelpful from Management ?  Lack of formal support  Non- recognition of difficulties in returning to work  Being expected to perform at previous levels  Being expected to cope with challenging tasks  Being confronted or feeling bullied.

What was helpful from colleagues ?  Initial acknowledgement of death  Offers of help and support  Sensitivity  Including them in every day conversation  Carrying out acts of kindness  Being available to listen  Taking over part of their workload What was unhelpful from colleagues ?  Insensitive comments  Flippant remarks  Trite statements  Perceived avoidance  Conversations about other deaths What was helpful in returning to work ?  Found that work was a distraction  Gave something to focus on  Opportunity to pursue areas of interest or extend skills                             ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Bereavement is not an illness but it affects physical, emotional, spiritual & social aspects of a grieving person, who will need time and energy to adjust to life without their loved one. If given sensitive & thoughtful support in the work place, the bereaved are likely to recover more quickly. (1). Gibson J, Gallagher M. Tracey A (2011) Workplace support for traumatically bereaved people. In Bereavement care Vol 30, No 2, 10-16.