The Feelgood Factory in Netherton offers group and individual bereavement support for Sefton residents.

Bereavement may be one of the most difficult feelings we ever have to face. For many, cultural changes have resulted in death becoming a ‘taboo’ subject, no longer talked about, so when the inevitable happens we are often not equipped to deal with either our own or other people’s reaction.

The Bereavement support service was instigated as a result of a reported lack of easily accessible services for those who have experienced bereavement and have struggled with their experiences.

A bereavement group participant said: “I was stuck in denial and felt unable to move on. I felt unable to share my feelings with family and friends. Being in the group proved to be a safe place and I have been able to move on.

“There’s still a long way to go, but I do feel I’m better equipped to face the future.”

For more information call David Martin-Corkill on 0151 291 8028 or visit www.feelgoodfactory.org.uk.

Approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year. In England, 1 in 6 people report experiencing a common mental health problem (such as anxiety and depression) in any given week.

The overall number of people with mental health problems has not changed significantly in recent years, but worries about things like money, jobs and benefits can make it harder for people to cope. In Sefton there many activities and services that happen in the community every week, that you might not even know about, which could improve your mental health and help make life a little easier.

So, from World Suicide Prevention Day (10th September) to World Mental Health Day (10th October) we are going to spread the word about local services and activities available to people in Sefton. Look out for the hashtag #SeftonInMind and join in by telling us about good local services and activities that have helped you.