Bereavement and loss during COVID-19
In normal times, bereavement is a painful and distressing experience, but this has been exacerbated since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. In some cases death was sudden and unexpected. In others there was no opportunity to spend time with a loved one or say a final goodbye.
For many, the normal rituals surrounding death such as wakes and funeral ceremonies, were cancelled or severely curtailed. It is normal to feel angry, upset and cheated and as though there has been no "closure" in the traditional way.
In AGS, we have lost colleagues, family and friends during the pandemic. For some, this has happened in tandem with additional pressures and concerns in their working life. As frontline workers, AGS personnel have had to "keep going" and this means it may be weeks or even months before the grieving process starts.
There are supports and services available to you, both inside and outside AGS. These include:
Employee Assistance Service on 01 6660390 or employeeassistance@garda.ie
Peer Supporters – a full list of peer supporters is available on the portal or you can contact EAS to ask for details of Peer Supporters in your area.
As an employee of AGS, you can contact the Inspire 24/7 Helpline at any time on 1800 817 433. The service is free and confidential. You do not need to be “in crisis” to use this service, you can speak to someone about any concern – big or small.
The Samaritans – 116 123
Chaplains
Fr. Joe Kennedy and Rev. David Pierpoint have their contact details listed on the portal.
The Irish Hospice Foundation run the Bereavement Support Line (Freephone 1800 807 077, 10am to 1pm, Monday to Friday)
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