Understanding Grief — Finding Support

Grief is a deeply personal journey. There’s no right or wrong way to experience loss, and everyone’s path through grief is unique. At George Ball & Son, we want you to know you don’t have to face it alone. We’re here to offer guidance, resources, and connections to support services whenever you need them.

Speak to a Funeral Director

Understanding Grief

Grief can affect us in many ways — emotionally, physically, and mentally. It’s natural to feel a range of emotions including sadness, anger, confusion, or even numbness. You may also experience changes in sleep, appetite, or daily routine.

There is no set timeline for grief. Be kind to yourself and allow the process to unfold in your own time.

Finding Support

If you or someone you care about is struggling with grief, you may find help from:

  • Family and Friends
    Sometimes talking openly with loved ones can bring comfort and understanding.
  • Professional Counselling
    Trained grief counsellors can offer a safe space to explore your feelings.
  • Support Groups
    Sharing experiences with others who are going through similar loss can be a valuable source of strength.

Grief Support & Practical Guidance

Still have questions?
Please contact our friendly team.

Contact us

Not at all. You can choose to hold the service in a crematorium chapel, at our funeral home, or at another location that feels right for you.

We’ve listed a selection of trusted organisations that offer professional grief support:

Stockport Bereavement Support — Local bereavement counselling and support groups.
Talking Therapies | 0161 716 5640

Cruse Bereavement Support — Free, confidential support from trained volunteers.
www.cruse.org.uk | 0808 808 1677

Samaritans — 24/7 emotional support.
www.samaritans.org | 116 123

Grieving is hard work. It’s important to look after your wellbeing:

  • Don’t feel pressured to “move on” — take each day as it comes.
  • Reach out to people you trust.
  • Allow yourself to rest and take breaks.
  • If you feel overwhelmed, seek professional help.

Children and teenagers experience grief differently from adults. Their understanding of death and ability to express emotions may vary with age. It’s important to encourage open, honest conversations and answer questions simply and truthfully.

Specialist support is available through organisations like:

Child Bereavement UK — Guidance for families and professionals.
www.childbereavementuk.org | 0800 02 888 40

Winston’s Wish — Supporting bereaved children and families.
www.winstonswish.org | 08088 020 021

Grieving is natural, but if you find it hard to cope with daily life, feel persistently numb or overwhelmed, or experience prolonged anxiety or depression, it may be time to speak with a professional.

Counsellors, therapists, or bereavement support groups can provide the space and tools you need to process your grief in a healthy way.

If you ever feel unable to cope or have thoughts of self-harm, contact your GP or speak to a support service like Samaritans — they’re always there to listen.

Supporting someone who is grieving can feel daunting, but small gestures often make a big difference.

  • Be Present — Sometimes just being there is enough.
  • Listen Without Judgment — Let them share as much or as little as they want.
  • Offer Practical Help — Simple tasks like meals, childcare, or errands can ease pressure.
  • Avoid Clichés — Phrases like "they're in a better place" may not offer comfort.

Everyone grieves in their own way. Patience, understanding, and kindness go a long way.

Need help with practical matters after a bereavement?

We’ve created a clear, simple guide to help you understand the legal steps and practical tasks to take care of after someone passes away.

Legal & Practical Advice

Clear, straightforward advice on the legal steps that may need to be taken after a death—from registering the death to dealing with estates and wills.

Local Resources & Support Services

A curated list of local organisations, support groups, and practical services in Stockport and the surrounding areas.

  • I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional service we received from George Ball & Son during one of the most challenging times in our lives. When my father passed away, I felt overwhelmed and uncertain about how to proceed. However, the team at George Ball & Son was nothing short of excellent.
    Kathy Q
    Google Review
  • We had really good support from George Ball and Son from the minute my dad died; their care and compassion was excellent.
    All the funeral arrangements were made with minimal fuss, our wishes were easily accommodated and on the day of the funeral everything went smoothly.
    Thank you !
    Anne Brice
    Google Review
  • Margaret, Daniel & Rachel, Are so caring. They go that extra mile to help their customer. From our first meeting, to making my beloved husband look so lovely and peaceful, to the photograph, flowers and order of service and their attention to detail. Nothing was too much trouble. Everything they did was to perfection! I can't thank them enough.
    Carole
    Google Review