Identifying gaps in grief and bereavement support: insights from a multi methods study

Grief is a normal reaction to loss, but some bereaved people require structured support to adjust. This paper reports findings from phase one of a study to develop a statewide model for grief and bereavement support and assess the associated costs and benefits. A desktop review and online survey mapped existing supports and identified gaps in support. Semi-structured interviews provided further insight into areas of unmet need. Results showed existing grief supports for the general population, for targeted community bereavement care, and for specialised professional care, but a lack of integration between supports, challenges in identification and navigation of supports, and a gap in supports for diverse and rural populations. Supports to develop a grief-literate general population, and grief training for professionals were also needed. Identified gaps highlight preliminary key areas to be addressed in the selection or development of a model for statewide grief and bereavement support.