Sudden death guide launched

Speaking at the launch, the Minister said: “Dealing with the death of a loved one is always a very difficult time - even more difficult when the death is unexpected or traumatic. The impacts of sudden death or traumatic bereavement are unique for each individual. Approximately 10% of deaths in Northern Ireland each year are sudden or occur in a traumatic way, such as road traffic collisions, accidents, suicides and assaults.

“The effects vary greatly from one bereaved person to another. Many people receive support from their family, friends and their community. For others, especially those bereaved traumatically, more intensive or expert support and intervention may be required.”

The Minister continued: “The Sudden Death: Guidance at a Glance wall chart will help to support individuals, families and communities at a particularly difficult time, to enable bereaved people to understand their grief, cope with their loss and to promote their well-being. The guide is targeted towards families and friends, health and social care professionals, Trusts, schools and other relevant organisations.

“I hope this invaluable resource will go some way towards assisting those coping with a sudden loss.”