This second lockdown is especially hard for those who have lost a loved one and so Douch Family Funeral Directors is ensuring its free bereavement services continue.

The sessions are free to anyone and are held at its branch in Corfe Mullen and the Parish Rooms in Blandford, with the Isle of Purbeck-based sessions migrating to the telephone.

The group, which runs seven branches in east Dorset, has for some time offered bereavement counselling, open to all.

Emma Regan from the group said, “We really believe that our role doesn’t stop with the funeral but continues afterwards with bereavement counselling.

“We decided at the outset to open the sessions to anyone in the area and Covid and the lockdowns have made them more important than ever.

“With venues being closed during the first lockdown we moved online and to the phone, but then returned when restrictions were relaxed.

“For this lockdown we have been able to continue running sessions in Blandford  and our Ferndown group is meeting at our Corfe Mullen branch.

“We are fortunate to have these facilities which enable us to continue face-to-face sessions.

“We’re looking at other venues in the Isle of Purbeck but we are continuing to offer the service over the telephone.

“Counselling has been extremely important for many people during the Covid crisis.

“Many people were unable to attend funerals due to the numbers being restricted and were unable to say a proper goodbye.

“Anyone wishing to join a group or receive counselling should call one of our branches.

“The Douch Family are a partner of Our Dorset Open Door bereavement support initiative, which includes other partners such as the NHS, CCG, Cruse, Mosaic, Dorset Mind, Community Action Group and more.”