Sam is 38 and works full time. His father died recently after struggling with lung cancer. They were very close and Sam was finding it hard to come to terms with his death, often breaking down in tears at work.
Sam's line manager got in touch with RED ARC to see if they could help in any way - people at work were at a loss to know how to deal with the situation. The RED ARC nurse adviser had a chat with Sam's manager, giving him general advice and reassurance.
She also told him that Sam could contact RED ARC direct if he'd like to. Two days later Sam phoned and the nurse adviser has been closely in touch with him ever since. She reassured Sam that all his contact with RED ARC would be completely confidential: there would be no feedback to his manager or anyone else.
Sam has now started to see a bereavement counsellor, which was quickly arranged by RED ARC. He said that initially there was a lot of sympathy and support but, as time passed, people around him moved on with their lives and expected him to have too. He felt they were embarrassed by him showing his feelings - and some even avoided him. The counsellor reassured him that this was completely normal and things would slowly improve, and he would benefit from sharing his thoughts and anxieties with the counsellor.
Sam is still very sad but feels more in control now. He says he's grateful for the help he received from RED ARC and also to his manager who pointed him in the right direction.