Contributors
The Singapore Hospice Council (SHC), together with Temasek Foundation Cares and Ang Chin Moh Foundation, recently launched two books on the topics related to grief and bereavement at the SHC’s Grief & Bereavement Conference.
Shared Dr Amy Khor, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Health at the Conference: “Last year, close to 21,000 deaths occurred in Singapore. This number has grown by an average of almost 500 deaths each year since 2010, in tandem with a rapidly ageing population where one in four Singaporeans is expected to be aged 65 or above come 2030. As the number of bereaved individuals and families will see a corresponding increase, it is timely that we, as a society, give our attention not only to the dying but also to the people they leave behind.”
She added: “After the death of a loved one, it is important that the bereaved continue to receive both psychosocial support and assistance with practical matters from their social network as well as from professionals. Relatives, friends, colleagues, classmates and faith groups play an important role in supporting the bereaved. It is therefore important to raise their levels of understanding about grief and knowledge on how to support this group.”
The first book by SHC titled “Caring for Yourself and Others After a Death” contains information and suggestions for Singaporeans on caring for themselves and supporting others with bereavement needs. Whether you are a concerned neighbour, a teacher, or a colleague, the book offers tips appropriate to your role and context when you are called upon to support a bereaved member of your community.
The second book, prepared by SHC and volunteer law students, is titled “When a Death Occurs – a Guide to Practical Matters” and covers matters related to funeral planning and estate management. Dr Khor said, “Not all of us are familiar and prepared for the tasks awaiting us after the death of a loved one. Some of us will need additional guidance to understand the legal instruments, legislations and policies that are in place to safeguard the interests of the deceased and their next-of-kin as we manage the estate of the deceased.”
There is also a list of community bereavement service providers in both books for those who need to seek help and support. To download the books, go to: https://singaporehospice.org.sg/bereavement/.
