FAQs
We’ve tried to answer some of the most Frequently Asked Questions about our work below. You can also read more about us in our various Blogs.
What does Suicide Bereavement Support Cumbria (SBS Cumbria) do?
Our aim has been to provide a platform for people who have been bereaved by suicide to find support in whatever form works for them. This could be through attending our self-help support groups, having a one-to-one chat on the phone or in person in a public place, or by accessing the resources provided on this website.
Who is SBS Cumbria here to help?
We support adults who have been bereaved by suicide in the county of Cumbria. We know that there are currently no similar groups in North Lancashire or South Scotland, so we do ask you to contact us if you are from the surrounding area - you will be made welcome regardless of where you live.
Is there an assessment process?
No, the only criteria for becoming involved is that you have been affected by suicide.
How can I access support?
Email us at hello@sbs.org.uk. Alternatively, call or text John on 07572 975721 or Karan on 07896 703757. All of our volunteers have been bereaved by suicide themselves, providing a supportive and safe environment for you.
What can I do if I need urgent help?
Bereavement by suicide is a risk factor for suicidal thoughts and behaviours. If you are having thoughts of suicide and you need urgent help, then access emergency support by:
Calling the Samaritans on 116 123.
Visiting your local A&E department;
Calling NHS 111 or 999;
Calling the Crisis and Resolution Home Treatment team, a 24 hour service for people experiencing a severe mental health crisis,
on 01228 523444;
Contacting your GP.
What kind of support is there available?
In the past, we offered face-to-face self-help support groups in Whitehaven, Carlisle, Kendal and Barrow-in-Furness. The groups were led by volunteers who have been bereaved by suicide themselves, and typically met once a month. There was an additional online Zoom group of about an hour each month too.
Unfortunately, due to pressures on our limited resources, most of these groups have now had their final meetings BUT THE WHITEHAVEN GROUP CONTINUES on the second Tuesday of each calendar month.
We can still provide one-to-one support over the phone; via text; or by email, and we maintain a private Facebook group where our members can connect with others who are in a similar situation.
Are your support services free?
Yes, our services are free.
Calls to our numbers are charged at standard network rates. If you do not have any credit or call allowances left, then you can contact us by email at hello@sbs.org.uk.
I am under 18, can you help me?
SBS Cumbria members have the experience mainly to help other adults. We do not specialise in supporting those who are under 18 and bereaved by suicide, other than as part of support for a wider family. If you are under 18 and looking for support, or you are looking for help for someone under 18, there are several organisations that specialise in helping children and young people. Some of them are listed here.
When was SBS Cumbria formed?
Suicide Bereavement Support (SBS) was established in 2019 by the same people who provided the SOBS Cumbria service from 2010 until 2019 when a decision was taken to establish a local group accountable to and run by local people.
Why is SBS Cumbria planning to close?
Suicide Bereavement Support (SBS) Cumbria was set up as a mutual support organisation with charitable status and it is run by volunteers who have been bereaved by suicide themselves. Due to various pressures and personal circumstances, it is no longer possible to run the organisation on this basis and it has been decided by the Trustees that the charity is to be wound up over the coming months, finally closing at the end of June 2024. You can read our full announcement in our blog post, dated 4 September 2023.
How is SBS Cumbria governed?
We are governed by a Board of Trustees, which consists of five trustees, and by our Steering Group, made up of other people who have volunteered to support our work. In line with section 17(1) of our constitution, Trustees are Associate Members of the organisation.
Do you employ any staff?
No, we are a wholly voluntary, community based organisation with no paid staff or office base, although we do have a registered office address in Penrith. We benefit from essential professional expertise from Catherine at Cumbria Admin Services (accountancy), Hazel at Woodrow Services (admin support) and Sally at Stoneleigh Communications (marketing).
Where can I find your latest Annual Report?
Our most recent Annual Report (2022-2023) can be downloaded as a pdf here and previous Reports are available to download here.
