The Bereavement Support Network helps to support not only those English speakers in France whose loved ones have died, but also those who are terminally ill themselves and the loved ones who care for them.
While we do not provide medical, physical, or palliative care, we offer a dedicated space for the emotional journey that accompanies terminal illness.
We provide compassionate accompaniment, listening and supporting you with any concerns and fears that arise. We help you make the best of the time you have and can provide practical information so that everything important to you is in place. If you would like to talk to someone about what you are going through, our one-to-one support volunteers are there for you.
Terminal illness
It’s completely natural, when living with a terminal illness, to carry fears, questions, or worries that feel too heavy to share with those you love. You may be trying to protect them from more pain while navigating so much yourself. That impulse to shield your family is deeply kind, but it can also feel very lonely.
Sometimes, it’s a gift to yourself-and to them-to find a safe space where you don’t have to “hold it together.” Our volunteers are here to offer that space. They offer a listening ear that isn’t a part of your daily life, allowing you to speak your mind freely without the worry of causing more sorrow and anguish. By doing so, those concerns and feelings often feel less overwhelming.
Caring for someone with a terminal diagnosis can also be very exhausting, both physically and emotionally. You may be carrying your own fears and feelings but purposely set them aside as you focus on your loved one’s needs. This too can feel lonely.
Despite trying to push them down though, emotions such as anger, sadness, denial, or even numbness often surface unexpectedly. This is normal and part of the anticipatory grief you are experiencing. But it is a lot to carry in silence; please don’t think you have to manage it alone. Speaking with a volunteer who listens and supports you can make a difference.
We are here to listen and help
There is no fee for our time and support
End of life preparation
Preparing for the end of life is one of the most caring things a person can do. It isn’t about giving up; it’s about making sure your wishes are known so that your family can focus on being with you, rather than on paperwork or guesswork.
It is natural to feel hesitant. Whether you are terminally ill now, or you are looking ahead while you’re still healthy, the goal is the same: to create a sense of peace and order for the future. By taking these steps now, you are actually giving a final, profound gift to the people you love.
We know that the practical side of loss can feel overwhelming, especially when you are navigating a system that might feel unfamiliar. To help make things clearer, we have created a series of simple, step-by-step guides. These resources are designed to walk you through exactly what needs to happen in France, from the first few hours to the final arrangements. Our goal is to give you the “how-to” so you can focus on what matters most.
Where do I get more information ?
Guides to help you through death, funerals and planning ahead in France.
Putting your affairs in order
A practical checklist for organising documents, digital assets, and legal wishes in France.
What to do when someone
dies in France
Follow the essential first steps to take after a death in France with our clear, step-by-step administrative guide.
Arranging a funeral in France
Follow our clear breakdown of funeral requirements in France, from legal timelines to essential logistical steps.
Where can I find more help?
Trusted external resources and organisations
Julia Samuel explains
anticipatory grief
In this insightful video, psychotherapist Julia Samuel explores the complex terrain of anticipatory grief.
The Grief Channel:
The myth behind end of life conversations
Dr. Kathryn Mannix reveals why breaking the silence on death doesn’t create sadness—it creates the relief, clarity, and connection needed to face it.
Finding palliative care
A guide to finding medical palliative care units in France and understanding holistic support for patients and their families.
Hospitalisation à domicile (HAD)
Learn about your rights to receive medical and palliative care in your own home, including eligibility and coordination with French healthcare teams.
You are not alone