Hi Renee-
We have worked with funeral homes in two ways, referring to their grief groups and providing grief groups at their location. Referring is a nice option as it gives people a choice for what works well for them and their schedule. The groups run at our local funeral homes are facilitated by the funeral homes bereavement counselor.
Things to think about with providing a group at their location. If the funeral home has a bereavement counselor working with and building a relationship with them is very helpful. If they don't have a bereavement counselor, you may need to do some work around educating whoever you are working with at the funeral home on what you'll need for running a group, space, referral process, timing, will funeral home staff in the building when group is happening etc.
It seems that there are other ways to work with funeral homes that might be of help also. Keeping them updated on when your agency is offering grief support groups or workshops. If the funeral home gives out information on grief support, brochures, flyers, can your information be added to the list.
Hope this helps.
Original Message:
Sent: 11-13-2020 15:04
From: Renee Beverlin
Subject: Community Bereavement and Working With Funeral Homes
Every once in a while I'm hearing about community outreach to funeral homes.
I'm intrigued, and definitely don't want to overlook any populations that could benefit from support....
Have any of you worked with funeral homes? What does that look like? Any tips or ideas that you can share with me?
Thanks!
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Renee Beverlin, LPC-R
Resident in Counseling
Community Bereavement Coordinator
Augusta Health, Hospice of the Shenandoah
Fishersville, VA
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