Remembered Farewells - Dandelion Farewells

❛There is possibly no more difficult experience than to lose someone you have loved and cared about, nor greater loss than to be separated from someone who loved and cared about you.❜

Dandelion Farewells has put in place a range of support and resources to extend our commitment to you beyond the time of planning and holding the funeral. Your well-being is important to us and we recognise that you may benefit from further guidance, to uphold you through the practical and emotional adjustments to find your ‘new normal’. following your recent bereavement. There is no right or wrong way to grieve. Our elements of aftercare are freely available to help you make sense of your experience.

❛The death of someone important to us will probably be one of the most difficult experiences we ever have to face❜

How can we help you?

We understand that the death of a loved one can be a very difficult time and that choosing a memorial item after the funeral can be an overwhelming task. Through our professional, personal and sympathetic approach, we can guide and support you to choose the right memorial for your circumstances, if this is something you would like to consider. We can provide information of the range of commemorative items available including stonemasonry, woodwork, glassware and jewellery; many of which can be personalised with engraving, imprints or messages. We will assist you to create an everlasting tribute that is reflective of the person who has died and your personal wishes.

We each have our own special place for our memories. Dandelion Farewells recognises the significance for some of remembering your loved one at special times of the year and anniversaries. Specifically, we will be in touch to invite you to our annual memorial event in December. Should you wish to hold your own personal time of reflection, an arranged ceremony or a private moment to light a candle, we are able to make ourselves and our premises available for you.

Dandelion Farewells has developed an extensive, broad collection of literature on the theme of bereavement, some of which relate to specific circumstances. This includes biographies, children’s books, bereavement booklets and activity resources. You are very welcome to borrow any of these. We also have leaflets and information about the many national and local charities and groups providing support to bereaved people.

Losing a loved one can turn your world upside down. You may find it helpful to meet with people who have also been bereaved. Those attending the group share memories: and experiences, both happy and difficult. You may be comfortable to talk or prefer to quietly listen. Sometimes it’s good to just have a cup of tea and connect with others.

There is no charge for attending the group and it is very welcoming and informal.

Please contact Dandelion Farewells for details of the dates and venue for Dandelion Companions or check our website.

Support from family and friends, involvement in community groups and your own personal reflections can enable you to adapt to your changed circumstances. It is also possible to seek guidance or counsel from someone outside your immediate circle.

It is quite normal to feel a range of strong emotions after a bereavement, including sadness, anger, relief and depression. You might wish to consider seeking additional professional support, if you are experiencing any of the following:

❛How you respond to the death of someone important to you can be different for everyone, at different times.❜

How can we help you?

As a member of the National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF), Dandelion Farewells offers SAIF Care, which provides a range of support to bereaved people over the age of 18, who have used our service. This includes:

A Freephone telephone helpline (0800 917 7224) which is open from 9am-9pm, Monday-Friday. Friendly, supportive staff are available to offer information, advice and a listening ear.
Email support and information via help@saifcare.org.uk
GriefChat – A private online chat box which can be found on the homepage of our website, engaging with professional support from SAIF Care.

You do not need to notify us if you choose to contact SAIF

Care, it is entirely confidential and private.

For face-to-face bereavement counselling, please contact

Dandelion Farewells and we will be able to provide

details of skilled and qualified counsellors in your local area.

SAIF Care is provided by Professional Help Limited, an organisational member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy and the National Counselling Society. Professional Help maintains the highest standards of customer service, client care and safe practice.

Remembered Farewells reflects our ongoing concern for your care. As you remember the person you are grieving for, we will remember you. We hope that the range of support outlined in this leaflet will offer you something that will nurture your understanding of what you are going through and help you to navigate your way ahead. And, if you would like a companion on this difficult journey, please be assured of our continued support for you.