More Support Needed for Grieving Families After Trauma

Since 2013 almost 60 people have died in housefires or road accidents in South Yorkshire.

That's why families who've lost loved ones in traumatic circumstances want others to know that there is support out there.

Karen Mace's son Richard was 30 when he died in a fire at his flat in Sheffield.

She said:

"I was having trouble coping wth the fact that my son had died. I wanted someone to talk to me and tell me that I was going to be alright. Even though I've got a great family and good best friend I didn't want to burden them. I just wanted to know what was going to happen to me for the rest of my life."

It was finding out about the HOPE support group which helped her cope with her grief.

South Yorkshire's fairly unique having it because it's especially for those who've been bereaved by a traumatic death or who've witnessed one.

It was set up more than a decade ago after a housefire involving three young children.

Karen's told us not enough people know they're there:

"If you go through your GP there's places like Cruise or private therapists but they usually have a waiting list and if you do get to see a counsellor you might have a half hour slot or a maximum of five sessions. With us, there's no waiting list.

"Whatever you're going through we've already been there. Being in the support group has taught me how to accept that my son is dead and that nothing I can do, no matter how much praying or wishing, can turn the clock back. It's knowing to accept that there is life and allowing yourself to feel happy, allowing yourself to laugh without feeling guilty."

The group meets on the second Wednesday of every month at the Training and Development Centre in Handsworth from 6.30pm-8:30pm.

People can call the group on 0114 253 2445 or email hope@syfire.gov.uk.