Fosters Funeral Directors, based in Ayr, has entered a landmark partnership with Cruse Scotland to help bereaved families across Cumnock, Ayr and Kilmarnock access support beyond the funeral itself.
The link-up marks Cruse Scotland’s first partnership with a funeral business, with the aim of encouraging more open conversations about grief and ensuring local families know where to turn for help when they need it most.
Encouraging open conversations about grief
The partnership recognises that grief has no set timetable, with support often needed immediately after a loss or much later. It aims to encourage open conversations around grief and remembrance while generating funds to keep Cruse Scotland’s specialist services free and accessible nationwide.
Nick McLaughlin, Chief Operating Officer at Fosters Funeral Directors, said: “We are privileged to support families at some of the most difficult times in their lives, but grief does not start or end with the funeral.
“Through this partnership, we want families to know specialist support is there whenever they need it.
“Together, we can make it easier for families to find help in familiar local places, when they feel ready.”
Keeping bereavement support free
Funds raised through the partnership will help keep Cruse Scotland’s bereavement support free and accessible for people across Scotland.
Fiona Arnott-Barron, Cruse Scotland Chief Executive, said: “Grief is different for everyone, and there is no right or wrong way to experience it.
“This partnership will help more bereaved people know where to turn, and give families, friends and communities confidence to guide others towards help.
“We are very grateful to Fosters Funeral Directors for helping more people understand that no one has to face grief alone.”
Anyone looking for help can visit crusescotland.org.uk or call Cruse Scotland’s free Bereavement Helpline on 0808 802 6161.
