Faith In Action
Study Finds Bereavement Support Services Failing Ethnically Diverse Communities
From Phys.org Archaeology · October 21, 2026
An England-wide study published in BMC Medicine indicates that bereavement support services are failing individuals from ethnically diverse backgrounds. Researchers, led by Professor Lucy Selman of the University of Bristol, found that obstacles such as racism, language barriers, and difficult referral systems exist at nearly every stage of seeking help.
The research, which included interviews with bereaved individuals and 23 support providers, noted that many communities process grief through cultural or faith-based practices that are not always recognized by existing services. Researchers argued that inequities are rooted in how services are designed and funded rather than a reluctance by communities to seek help.
To address these issues, the study authors and participants co-designed recommendations for policymakers. These include embedding equity into service design, providing sustainable funding for community-led organizations, and building stronger relationships with communities to ensure support is delivered in safe, trusted environments.
A factual summary prepared by The Quantum Disciple. The original report belongs to its publisher.