Supporting Those Who Are Grieving: Diversity Among Professionals and Practices

Study day organized by the Lausanne School of Social Work (HETSL).

In French-speaking Switzerland, a wide range of professionals, independent practitioners, and volunteers support those who are grieving from the moment of death. This moment marks the transition from end-of-life care provided by healthcare professionals to potential professional support for the bereaved by specialists in the fields of mortuary services, funeral arrangements, and grief counseling. But how can one navigate the wide range of available services?

Funeral home staff, as well as religious and secular officiants, are often the first to welcome, comfort, and support the bereaved during the initial days. Subsequently, support services are available upon request from those who are grieving: support groups, administrative assistance, “cafés mortels,” individual counseling, and more.

During this event, several professionals will have the opportunity to speak in optional workshops to explain their support practices and the specific nature of their assistance tailored to their target audience. Plenary sessions punctuate the day, providing opportunities for collective reflection and highlighting key issues (spirituality, conceptions of grief, gaps in care, etc.) based on current research on death and grief.

During the lunch break, various organizations will present their activities at information booths. This time will offer participants the opportunity to discover existing resources, interact with the speakers, and deepen their understanding of the support network in order to guide those facing bereavement.

Learn more:
https://www.hetsl.ch/