Christmas is a time for families, for togetherness and for happiness. But for many people it is also a time filled with memories of someone close who has died, and who will be dreadfully missed.  If you have been bereaved, whether it was painfully recent or many years ago, Christmas can be an agonizing and lonely time.  

That’s why Cruse volunteers will be here this Christmas, donating their time to talk and offer a listening ear and emotional support to those affected by bereavement.

It will cost £15,000 to keep the helpline open over Christmas and the New Year. Please help us to support bereaved people over Christmas by donating to this appeal.   

Cruse volunteer Sue shares her experience of Christmas and encourages anyone who is finding it difficult to get in touch. “As I had experienced several bereavements, including one very traumatic loss I knew that Christmas can be a very difficult time when you have lost someone you love. You can feel especially vulnerable and lonely in what seems like a twinkly happy world. It appears from all the adverts that it is all happy families and warm houses whereas for some this is the exact opposite when the only thing a bereaved person wants for Christmas is their loved one back and that is the only present they will not receive.  

Sometimes picking up the phone is the hardest thing to do, but if you can manage that then you will find someone who will support you over this very difficult time of year.”