New rooms have been opened at north Cumbria's acute hospitals to help families after the death of a loved one.

The bereavement suites at the West Cumberland Hospital in Whitehaven and the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle mark the completion of work to develop North Cumbria University Hospitals Trust's bereavement service.

The suites provide a space where families can collect medical cause of death certificates and patients' personal possessions.

It also provides a private area for sensitive conversations with doctors or other staff members, or for those who are having crucial discussions about organ or tissue donation.

Bereavement nurse Michelle Towers and bereavement officer Rachel Johnson are based at the West Cumberland Hospital's suite.

The Carlisle hospital's service is staffed by bereavement liaison specialist nurse Helen Westwood and bereavement officer Janice Delaney.

They help patients’ families deal with their loss, as well as giving advice on practical issues such as registering the death and how to arrange a funeral.

Michelle has worked for the trust for several years and is settling into her new role.

Helen, Janice and Rachel are new recruits who have previously worked for other organisations and have a wealth of experience in dealing with families and compassionate care.

Helen said: “The team is really passionate about improving bereavement care and the development of this new service.

“Helping people through one of the most difficult times of their lives is very challenging but also deeply rewarding.

“The team is also available to support staff when they are caring for dying patients and their families.

“The bereavement suites are an invaluable resource, and they offer an alternative to returning to the ward to collect a patient’s property as families can find this difficult.”