The majority (53%) of UK adults have not spoken to anyone about taking on the responsibility of planning their funeral when they are no longer here.
Research from MetLife found that 31% of those who had experienced bereavement and funeral planning, said planning a funeral added stress to what was already a very difficult and upsetting time.
When going through a bereavement 39% turned to their partner or spouse, 23% to a friend or neighbour, 17% to their parents, 13% to children and 3% to their employer or boss.
However almost one in four (23%) grieved alone and did not have anyone for comfort and support.
The survey conducted out by Opinium in March heard from 2,000 adults who had experienced bereavement between 2021 and 2023.
When it comes to experiencing loss while working, half (54%) of respondents were aware of support provided by their employer, though 31% did not know what support was available.
A third (32%) said they were given some paid time off, 19% confirmed their employer was supportive and they could take up to two weeks off to grieve.
MetLife UK head of employee benefits Adrian Matthews added: “Grief is a very personal experience. It can bring on a rollercoaster of emotions all while having to navigate practical decisions.
“The death of a loved one can be an incredibly challenging time and having nobody to turn to can make a devastating situation even more difficult.
“Grief Awareness Day (30 August) highlights just how important it is to support our family, friends, colleagues when experiencing loss.
“This is an important initiative that aims to encourage open conversations about grief and loss, something that many people need support with, both in and out of the workplace.
“With simple and frequent communication of the resources available, employers can ensure their employees are fully supported in times of grief, have an outlet to turn to, and most importantly, let them know they’re not alone.”
Children’s illness
In separate research, MetLife also quizzed 3,000 working parents about taking time off work should a child fall ill or have an accident.
The top two multiple choice answers found 29% of respondents said their boss was very supportive, so they would not worry about having to take time off, while 27% said their employer was family orientated and they would understand.
Almost 27% said they would feel guilty taking time off but 25% said their colleagues were caring and supportive and would pick up their workload.
Considering the financial impact, 25% said they had to use or would use their savings, 23% cut back on luxuries but more than 20% said there would be no financial impact.
Additionally 18% said they have no choice but to juggle work and caring to avoid not being paid, while 16% would cut back on food or shopping.
Perhaps somewhat encouragingly, less than 6% would cancel financial products such as insurance and 5% would have to miss a mortgage or rent payment.
