Volunteer helpers’ perspectives on establishing contact with drug‐related death bereaved

The role of civil society organisations in reaching marginalised groups

Dados Bibliográficos

ID24138596
AutoresMay‐Liss Kvitne (Social Welfare Department), Lillian Bruland Selseng (0000-0003-1801-1114, Social Welfare Department), Sari Kaarina Lindeman (0000-0001-6521-1720, Social Welfare Department, autor correspondente)
Ano2026
Páginas1-10
Data de publicação2026-08-26
Peer ReviewedSim
Open AccessSim
TipoARTICLE
PeriódicoDeath Studies (JOURNAL)
Identificadores do periódicoISSN: 0748-1187 • E-ISSN: 1091-7683
EditoraInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/07481187.2026.2723775
PMID42644424
OpenAlexW7204239831
IdiomaEN
Referências citadas26

This study examines how helpers in civil society organizations (CSOs) understand conditions shaping their efforts to establish contact with individuals bereaved after a drug‐related death. Drug‐related death bereavement is marked by stigma, social withdrawal, and limited access to early support, making initial contact challenging. Based on six focus groups analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis, three themes emerged: Increased Visibility in Society, Guidance to Services, and Tailored Services for Diverse Needs. Findings show that societal stigma and limited recognition make bereaved individuals less visible, that unclear service pathways hinder early outreach, and that diverse bereavement experiences require flexible, low‐threshold support. CSO helpers described themselves as filling gaps in the formal system while emphasizing the need for stronger coordination with public services. The study highlights the value of community‐based support within a public‐health approach and suggests that improving early contact may reduce isolation and strengthen long‐term recovery for bereaved following drug‐related death.

Civil society · Focus group · Isolation (microbiology) · Reflexivity · Social isolation · Thematic analysis · Value (mathematics) · Viewpoints · Grief, Bereavement, and Mental Health · Homelessness and Social Issues · Suicide and Self-Harm Studies