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Grief Support from AB Walker
Bereavement Support
The death of a loved one is an especially difficult time. Alongside the immediate responsibility of planning a funeral, many people find themselves navigating intense and often conflicting emotions, whilst also beginning the practical adjustment to life without someone who mattered deeply to them.
At AB Walker Funeral Directors, we understand that support should not end once the funeral has taken place. Grief does not follow a timetable, and everyone experiences loss in their own way. That is why we have developed a comprehensive bereavement aftercare programme, designed to support individuals and families in the weeks and months that follow a bereavement.
Our support includes both immediate online guidance and longer-term, in-person group support, offering care that meets your needs wherever you are on your grief journey.
Grief Chat – Free, Immediate Online Bereavement Support
Grief can feel overwhelming, especially in the early days. You may have questions, worries, or emotions that feel difficult to share with family or friends. Sometimes, what you need most is simply someone to listen.
What is Grief Chat?
Grief Chat is a free, confidential online bereavement support service that AB Walker is proud to offer as part of our aftercare programme. It provides access to trained bereavement counsellors via live chat, giving you the opportunity to talk openly about how you are feeling in a safe, supportive space.
Grief Chat is available Monday to Friday, 9am to 9pm, offering accessible support at times when grief may feel most intense. There is no cost, no obligation, and no pressure to know what to say. Whether you are feeling numb, angry, confused, or simply exhausted, the service is there to support you.
How Grief Chat can Help
Grief Chat is particularly helpful if you:
- Need immediate emotional support
- Prefer online or written communication
- Are unsure whether you are ready for group or face-to-face support
- Want reassurance that what you are feeling is normal
Many people find comfort in knowing that help is available at the moment they need it most, without having to wait for an appointment.
You can find further information and access Grief Chat directly via our bereavement support page:
https://www.abwalker.co.uk/supporting-you/loss-and-bereavement-support/
Grief Chat – Questions & Answers
Is Grief Chat really free?
Yes. The service is completely free for families supported by AB Walker.
Who will I be speaking to?
You will be connected with a trained bereavement counsellor experienced in supporting people through loss.
Do I need to be recently bereaved?
No. Grief can resurface at any time, and support is available whenever you feel you need it.
The Link Bereavement Course – Gentle Support Through Shared Experience
For those who feel ready for a more structured form of support, The Link Bereavement Course offers the opportunity to connect with others who understand what you are going through.
About The Link Course
The Link is a carefully designed bereavement support course run by AB Walker, providing a safe, welcoming environment where individuals can explore their grief alongside others who have experienced loss.
The course is open to anyone who has lost a relative four or more months ago, regardless of whether AB Walker arranged the funeral. It is held locally and guided by the compassionate and experienced Beverley and Emily, who create a calm, respectful space where everyone is heard and supported.
Our next course runs from 26 February to 26 March, and there are currently a few spaces remaining.
Why Link Bereavement Matters
Over time, The Link has helped many attendees form lasting friendships and informal support networks. For some, it becomes the first place where they feel truly understood. For others, it is a gentle step towards rebuilding confidence and finding a sense of normality again.
The focus is not on “moving on”, but on learning how to live alongside loss, at your own pace.
More information about the course can be found here:
https://www.abwalker.co.uk/supporting-you/loss-and-bereavement-support/the-link-bereavement-course/
The Link Course – Questions & Answers
Do I have to share my story?
No. There is never any pressure to speak. Listening is just as valuable as talking.
Is the course counselling?
The Link is a supportive group course, not formal therapy, but it is led by experienced facilitators who understand grief deeply.
Can I attend if AB Walker did not arrange the funeral?
Yes. The course is open to anyone who has experienced bereavement and feels it may help them.
Here for you, Whenever you are Ready
Grief has no right or wrong path, and there is no expectation to cope alone. Whether you need immediate, private support through Grief Chat or feel ready to connect with others through The Link Bereavement Course, AB Walker is here to walk alongside you.
If you would like to learn more about our bereavement support services, or discuss what might be right for you, please visit our website or contact our team. Support is available whenever you are ready to reach out.
You can contact us 24/7
Email or call us with your questions, queries and requirements. For urgent assistance, call us on 0118 957 3650 24 hours a day, seven days a week.