Dumbarton MSP Jackie Baillie is backing a motion supporting the work of a national healthcare charity in providing support for those who have went through a recent bereavement.

The Scottish Parliament marked Death Awareness Week, with MSP from all parties backing a motion that supports the work of Sue Ryder in assisting those who have recently lost a loved one.

The motion aims to tackle growing feelings of isolation and lack of support felt by those who have went through a bereavement, and calls for more Scots to be more open about death and dying so that bereavement is a less solitary experience.

Jackie Baillie MSP said:

"Support by charities like Sue Ryder is vital for people who are struggling to come to terms with the death of a family member or someone they were close to.

"Their online community – where people go to for support from others in similar situations – is proving to be an invaluable tool for people who are feeling isolated. People who use it feel more able to cope and less alone so I would urge anyone who thinks they’d benefit to give it a try.”

Pamela Mackenzie, Sue Ryder’s Scotland Director, said:

"Originally designed for people approaching the end of life, our online community has evolved to become more of a support for people who have lost someone they care for. People who use the service are going through a wide range of experiences, many of which are extremely difficult, and the support offered by community members to each other is immense."