The HSE has teamed up with the Irish Hospice Foundation to launch a new campaign to support healthcare workers struggling with bereavement, grief and loss.

The new initiative sets out to support workers following the pandemic, which was a new and difficult experience for many including those exposed to more death, illness and distress than usual,

Developed in consultation with the HSE employee assistance programme (EAP) and healthcare workers, the resource covers coping with the death of a team member, personal bereavement and Covid-19 and grief. There is also a guide on how healthcare workers can support each other as they navigate grief.

A list of useful contact details and a dedicated online guide to increase knowledge about grief, bereavement and supports is also included in the resource.

• HSE staff can call the HSE Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) on 0818-327-327 to speak to someone who can help. This is a free and confidential service.
• The IHF Bereavement Support Line is open Monday to Friday, from 10.00am to 1.00pm and is available on 1800-80-70-77
• Information to increase knowledge about grief, bereavement and supports can be found HERE. 

The HSE’s national director of integrated operations, Dr Stephanie O’Keefe, is playing a key role in the rollout of the initiative. She said that healthcare workers care for others, and looking after themselves, especially after losing someone close to them is the self-care that many forget.

“Covid-19 took away end of life moments from patients and families, with healthcare workers sometimes becoming the only human connection during this time. Be gentle on yourself, acknowledge your feelings and reach out for support if you need to,” she said.