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NHS Education for Scotland

A skilled and sustainable workforce for a healthier Scotland

Experiencing the death of a colleague - launch of a new resource

Experiencing the death of a colleague - launch of a new resource

Experiencing the death of a colleague - launch of a new resource

Those of us working in health and social care, may during our working life, experience the death of a friend and colleague. Knowing what to say and do in these situations to support ourselves and others can be challenging and naturally people may feel apprehensive.  

Our NES Bereavement Education Programme recently launched a suite of five short e-Learning modules on experiencing the death of a colleague in health or social care. The modules illustrate responses and actions that may be helpful when supporting individuals, teams and those across the wider organisation. 

The modules draw on current guidance as well as incorporating real-life case studies (from a range of clinical and non-clinical staff working across health and social care) which can be used for reflection, either individually or as part of a small group discussion. We developed the resources to increase feelings of preparedness among staff, should it happen that they might experience the death of a colleague in the future. However, people may choose to access the materials at other times too. 

The modules focus on: 

  1. An introduction to grief and bereavement 
  2. Sharing the news 
  3. Consideration for employers and managers 
  4. Support and wellbeing 
  5. Memorialising and remembering 

You can view the modules on the Dealing with bereavement in the workplace Turas page. 

The NES Bereavement Education Programme is involved in developing educational resources and hosting learning events to support health and social care staff in managing bereavement care and communications.

To find out more visit the NES Support Around Death website or consider signing up to the NES Bereavement Update e-Newsletter

For any questions about the modules launched or the work of the NES Bereavement Education Programme please contact SupportAroundDeath@nes.scot.nhs.uk  


Contact: corpcomms@nes.scot.nhs.uk

November, 26 2024