Willow
Public Facebook Page
It offers information and resources that may be helpful for those supporting someone through voluntary assisted dying. Email enquires@willowsupport.org
Private Facebook Group
Our private Facebook group is a safe space for those who have supported - or are currently supporting - someone through a voluntary assisted death.
To ensure privacy and support, membership is by request. After submitting a request to join, one of our group members will reach out via email or phone for a brief conversation before approval. Inside the group, members can share photos and stories of their loved ones, ask for or offer support, or simply find comfort in the shared experiences of others. Members can also find details about in-person meetups for additional support and connection.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/593232336340211/
Meet Ups
Willow offers face to face meet ups in varied metro locations to create a space for people with lived experience to come together and connect with others over a cuppa in a safe space to support each other. Join our private Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/groups/593232336340211/ or send us an email enquires@willowsupport.org to be kept up to date on our free next meet-up.
Lean on Me Project
The Lean on me project aims to connect people in Australia and Aotearoa/New Zealand, who have had someone close undergo the VAD journey. By sharing stories and feelings, each person can give and receive the understanding and support to help move forward in bereavement.
Information about voluntary assisted dying
The WA VAD Statewide Care Navigator Service are a free service that provides information and support for those seeking information or exploring VAD and their families and support networks, anywhere across WA. Anyone can contact the Care Navigator Service, no referral is needed. The Care Navigators maintain a list of grief and bereavement service providers who have had training in VAD and may be able to support you. The Service is available Monday to Friday during business hours.
Phone: (08) 9431 2755
vadcarenavigator@health.wa.gov.au
Therapeutic Grief and Bereavement Support
There is no doubt that supporting someone you love through voluntary assisted dying – regardless of if they choose to die with VAD or die of natural causes – can be hard. There are a number of services available that can help to catch you when you need it.
Grief Information
Many of us have had very little experience in grief and loss, and it can be helpful to understand more on what the journey may look like, common grief responses and awareness on how to manage things that may be really difficult, like sleep. Grief Australia have helpful and reliable information available free on their website
https://www.grief.org.au/ga/Content/Information-Sheets/About-Grief.aspx
Grief and bereavement support services
There are a number of free counselling and support services that have had some training in VAD and are able to support you without needing a referral from your GP.
Griefline
Offers both phone and online support options, and also has information on their website on grief.
Phone helpline 1300 845 745 8am to 8pm: 7 days (AEST)
They also offer virtual therapeutic support groups for people supporting someone they love through VAD, and after their death anywhere across Australia in partnership with Dying with Dignity Victoria.
https://griefline.org.au/get-help/vad-support-groups/
Lifeline Counselling Support
Offers both face to face and virtual free counselling services for anyone Lifeline WA provides a free counselling service to anyone experiencing bereavement of a family member. This service is available to people living in Western Australia and is provided by trained counsellors (separate to their helpline) You can refer yourself, a friend, family member for up to 12 free sessions through their online form or over the phone.
https://wa.lifeline.org.au/services/counselling-and-support/