A free support service for families bereaved by suicide has been launched - after Slough and Wokingham Borough Councils joined forces with the Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (BHFT) to commission it.

This service will provide residents coping with the death through suicide of a loved one with a specialist case worker who will work closely with them to provide practical help and emotional support.

This will include navigating the criminal justice system and coroner’s court, support with arranging funeral proceedings and accessing supportive funds that might be available, while helping families cope with the psychological effects of trauma.

Natasa Pantelic, Slough Borough Council's cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “The service will offer a listening ear and a helping hand at a very difficult time. We are extremely proud to be working with Victim Support, Wokingham Borough Council and BHFT on such an important project.”

It all forms part of the Berkshire-wide Suicide Prevention Plan and is free and confidential.

To be referred to this service, email: BBS.support@victimsupport.org.uk . You can also call the free Victim Support line on: 0808 16 89 111, 24 hours a day, every day or visit: www.victimsupport.org.uk/bereaved-berkshire