Understanding bereavement support in response to Covid-19

A yellow heart has been widely shared across the UK during lockdown, giving many bereaved families a meaningful opportunity to visibly share their loss and grief. Originating from a single bereaved family, this simple and powerful movement has showcased one of many new forms of grieving developed during the time of Covid-19. In the face of lockdown, social distancing and other new norms, the experience of grieving and bereavement is no longer the same as before. It requires revised, compromised and even completely new ways to grieve and to deal with bereavement. It is fascinating to see how many bereaved people have spontaneously and creatively found their own ways to grieve and how wider society has supported these experiences. Despite this, it is heart-breaking to see that many others are still being left in isolation and are powerless to face their loss. In light of this contrasting picture, it is both important and necessary to understand how Covid-19 has changed the experience of grieving and bereavement, and how bereaved people can be better supported in this changed situation.