We have a responsibility not to avoid these conversations. Those with an intellectual disability have a right to know when somebody has died. – Support worker

It can be difficult to know what to say to support someone who is grieving. Sometimes when we try to say something supportive, our words might actually make the person who is grieving feel that their grief is being dismissed or unrecognized. Being supportive often means recognizing the person’s loss and listening to how they are feeling.

Saying the “wrong thing” can happen and is a very common worry but remember that it is human and normal to make mistakes. If this happens, the most important thing is to acknowledge it. Let the person know that you feel that you said the wrong thing, and ask how it made them feel. Keep your communication open. Listen and follow the person’s lead.

Click on the switch buttons below to view examples of what to say and what not to say.