More than 3,300 people in West Sussex left suddenly bereaved because of COVID-19
The county is in the top 20 local authority areas most affected
Figures from a national charity show 3,385 people in West Sussex have been left suddenly bereaved because of COVID-19.
It puts the county in the top 20 local authority areas most affected, according to analysis by the charity bereavement service Sudden.
The charity found that some 301,955 people across the UK have been seriously bereaved because of COVID-19 ahead of Christmas.
Studies show that, for every death, there are at least five people on average who are bereaved of a close family member.
The charity has said that without early care and social support, those dealing with the sudden loss of a loved one are at an increased risk of serious mental health conditions, including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Sudden’s analysis comes during this year’s National Grief Awareness Week (2 to 8 December).
Mary Williams OBE, Sudden’s chief executive, said:
"Today’s (3 December) figures show that more than a quarter of a million people in the UK have been suddenly bereaved as a result of COVID-19, causing untold shock and turmoil and often huge practical and mental health challenges.
"For many, this heartache is particularly difficult over the Christmas period and it’s vital that people who face an unexpected bereavement get access to emotional and practical support from day one, onwards, helping them cope, understand the reactions they are experiencing and stay safe.
"Sudden is at the frontline of helping people through their darkest hours, from day one of their bereavement, onwards.
"Early support can make a significant difference to someone’s long-term wellbeing, as well as significantly reduce the economic costs to society of sudden bereavement."