Community Support and Local Resources for the Bereaved

There are many local resources for the bereaved in British Columbia, and what is available in your area depends on where you live. There are also a variety of online resources and virtual support groups. In today’s blog article, we are going to offer a brief rundown on what is available in the Lower Mainland.

BC Bereavement Helpline. Call 1-877-779-2223 or 604-738-9950. Those answering this line are familiar with many of the grief resources available and will be able to offer contact information to the type of grief support you are seeking.

Hospitals and Hospice Societies

Several hospitals and hospice groups offer grief counselling and support groups. Where and how often they meet depends on the individual organization. If you are having difficulty figuring out which one suits you, ask a friend or relative to make these calls for you. Langley Hospice 604-530-1115 provides excellent counselling to anyone whether you have been in their care or not.

Online Support Groups

There are also virtual support groups available. Some are free, and some have a cost associated with them. There are many listed on the Psychology Today website.

Social media also has groups that are devoted to grief support. You would have to be somewhat computer savvy, but these groups are not hard to find. These groups can be worldwide, and you could connect with someone outside your local area.

There are other local supports not mentioned here. For example, if you are a churchgoer, often churches go out of their way to support parishioners in a time of need. Sometimes friends and neighbours are willing to help you with their time and generosity.

Your first resource should always be your family doctor. Most family doctors are very plugged in to the local supports available for patients who have suffered a loss. The most important message here is that if you need some help or support, please ask for it. Ask you family, your friends, your doctor, call the BC Bereavement Helpline or Langley Hospice because support is available. 

Arbutus Funeral Service Inc., based in the Walnut Grove part of northwest Langley Township, British Columbia, is a family-owned and operated funeral home providing practical and affordable funeral services. We believe in cultural sensitivity and treat every client and family with respect and compassion. If you have any questions about this article or would like to talk to us about funeral services, please call 604-888-9895.