Self-help groups enable patients with a particular
condition/illness to express mutual support via the sharing of
similar experiences and factual information. Emotional support from
those in a similar situation is often vital for patients coping
with illness, and the sharing of personal “tips” about managing a
condition is something that a doctor cannot normally provide.
There are many self-help and
condition-specific patient organisations in the UK. Some are
national and others local, some are run entirely by patients while
others have medical input, some are “electronic communities”
sharing experiences via e-mail while others have real meetings and
face-to-face discussions.
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The British Medical Association
(BMA) publishes an excellent patient
guide to
finding self-help groups.
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Some organisations have developed
directories of local services in their particular area of concern.
The list below is not exhaustive but contains a selection of
organisations/resources that provide such information.
Bereavement Advice Centre (BAC)
BAC provides support to bereaved people on a host of practical
issues. It does not offer counselling but can help resolve
issues on probate, tax and benefits; as well
as assist those planning ahead for their own
death or the death of someone close to them. The
BAC can be contacted on 0800 634 9494 (9am -
5pm, Monday to Friday) or emailed at info@bereavementadvice.org.
Bereavement Advice
Centre (Website)
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