20 October 2020

The NHS is here to support the Grenfell Community as Phase Two of the Inquiry continues, just as we supported you in partnership with Hestia during Phase One.

Phase Two of the inquiry allows limited attendance, and is being live-streamed for those who wish to follow remotely. We understand that keeping up to date with the proceedings is important for some.

Some people may become upset by the information shared during the hearings, and news on it. The Inquiry may bring up a mixture of emotions such as feelings of loss, sadness, anger, and people may reexperience symptoms of trauma like remembering what has happened. Everyone is different and may have a different response and experience.

Top tips for staying well during the Inquiry:

- Plan how and when you choose to watch the Inquiry video stream.  You may want to watch it with someone else for support, and avoid catching up with the proceedings at night as it may interfere with your sleep.

- Make a schedule. Keeping a routine can be a really useful way to stay active, and have control over your day. Make time for varied activities in your day, including time for activities that are enjoyable and calming, as well as productive.  Think about writing up a timetable to put on the wall, and write out what activities you will do throughout the day.

- Taking care of your physical health will impact positively on your emotional wellbeing. Make sure you and your family have healthy meals when possible, and avoid comfort eating; exercising when you can, even a short walk can help, and have a good sleep routine.

- Be mindful of how much time you spend following the news and social media. If you notice that you are becoming more upset by news about Grenfell and the Inquiry, consider whether it would be helpful to protect your emotional space and limit the time you spend talking about these topics. Consider allocating a slot in your day to check the news/watch the proceedings and not check again until the allocated time the next day.

- Reach out to the people who know and care for you.  Staying connected and being kind to yourself is important.

Guy Fawkes night and holiday period

This time of year may also be difficult as we approach Guy Fawkes night and the Christmas holidays. There may be fireworks and bonfires on display and people should be prepared.

Not everyone will want to participate and some of the sights and sounds may cause people to relive frightening feelings and memories. Some people may also feel upset or lonely as the holiday season approaches.

The Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service can help. Please get in touch.

If you or someone you know needs to talk, please get in touch by:

  • Calling us direct on our helpline at 020863 76279 (Monday to Thursday, 8am to 8pm and Friday, 8am to 5pm) or overnight on 0800 0234650 (From 8pm, if you are 18 or over)
  • Emailing us - grenfell.wellbeingservice@nhs.net
  • Referring yourself via our website www.grenfellwellbeing.com
  • Speaking to your NHS therapist (if you are seeing or have seen someone)

 

Other non NHS support available

SHOUT – Anyone going through a crisis and needing support can text Shout to 85258

Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7 confidential support)