Thanking our 'Helpline Heroes.'

Cruse Scotland’s Helpline is often seen as a boat, offering a life ring to those who need it. Just like an ocean; grief, bereavement, and all the intersectionality of it can be deep, similar, different, an unknown. Some journeys starting with a depth of various emotions, some facing waves and storms where they are drowning as a result. The helpline team offer life rings to those out in these different oceans of bereavement to anyone who needs support and a safe space to come aboard.

It’s no secret that there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach when it comes to the grieving journey, for it is very intimate and personal for the bereaved. Just like an ocean with many parts still waiting to be discovered, in the field of grief and bereavement, we are still learning and growing which will always be inevitable when supporting humans across different life pathways, experiences and cultures. We saw this play out when the pandemic globally hit us in an unforgettable 2020, and continue to learn and grow so we can keep on being Scotland’s leading service in bereavement.

I’m happy to say however, that no matter what the bereavement situation is, no matter how complex or unique the grief might be, our helpline is here to provide that emotional support and hold that space for the bereaved.

I’m incredibly proud of our helpline team and the space they hold and share with those needing support. I’m often told by both helpline team members and clients how powerful and rewarding it is to be listened to, and to hold space to listen and uplift those being heard.

Our helpline staff and volunteers hold out life jackets on stand by, whenever someone is in need, and do this on a daily basis, 365 days a year. No matter the day, no matter what might be going on in society, our helpline is here and ready for those who need us. We know that when it comes to grief and the emotions it carries, there is never a ‘right time’ for this to happen, so we aim at being the boat out at sea, holding a light and support for anyone needing a crew behind them to be carried onboard, to be heard, safe and welcomed.

Both our clients and volunteers have powerful stories, experiences and insight into what brings them to Cruse Scotland’s helpline and it’s a place that I’m proud to be part of, lead and support.

I want to say a very big thanks to our 'Helpline Heroes' as we call them for the hours and moments they spend supporting bereaved people across Scotland, and a warm thank you to those who hold the strength and trust, in allowing us to listen and support them through the journey in their own sea.

#Helplinesawarenessday2023

Kyle McFadden-Young

Helpline Development Manager