The Jac Lewis Foundation was appointed by the Welsh Government to deliver the National Advisory and Liaison Service, offering compassionate, specialist support to those bereaved or affected by suicide throughout Wales.
The National Advisory and Liaison Service (NALS) has supported 543 individuals across Wales throughout 2025, providing crucial help to those affected by 364 suicides during this period.
The free and confidential service offers a lifeline to both adults and children of all ages living in Wales who have been affected by suicide, whether they are family members, friends, colleagues, neighbours or witnesses to a tragic loss.
A Safe Space to Talk and Be Heard
NALS provides support through phone, video call or face-to-face sessions, offering a safe and empathetic environment where people can talk about their experiences and navigate the complex emotions that follow a suicide.
The initial shock of losing someone to suicide can be devastating and overwhelming, but the NALS team is here to ensure that no one has to face this alone. Support is available to both adults and children in the days or weeks immediately following a suicide, or in the months and even years after the loss.
The service extends beyond emotional support to practical assistance, helping with inquests, financial issues, police matters, supporting others who have been affected, and even funeral arrangements.
People-Led and Values-Based Support
NALS builds upon the Jac Lewis Foundation’s extensive experience in delivering bereavement through suicide support services, which is guided by the Bereavement Service Standards. This wealth of knowledge has shaped how NALS operates, ensuring the service remains people-led and values-based.
Of the 543 individuals supported this year, 115 were self-referrals, demonstrating the growing awareness of the service amongst Welsh communities. Whilst not everyone who is referred wishes to receive ongoing help, the dedicated three-person team offers reassurance and support to all those in need.
Service Users Share Their Experiences
Feedback from those who have accessed NALS highlights the profound impact the service has had on their lives:
“The service from Clem was invaluable,” shared one service user. “He is so knowledgeable in regard to bereavement and the self-help tools and coping strategies I use all the time have helped me more than anyone will ever know. This service was exactly what I needed and is very much required for Wales.”
Another user expressed their gratitude: “So grateful to have someone to speak to who understood what I was going through. Clem made me aware of the feelings I was having and of the stages that may occur following a sudden and traumatic death.”
The personal approach of the NALS team has resonated deeply with those they support: “Speaking to Geraint on the phone was my one source of comfort. Suicide can happen in all walks of life, and when it does it makes everyone STOP and examine everything. Geraint was kind, logical, empathetic and listened. He made such a difference.”
Many users have praised the accessibility and responsiveness of the service: “Was so pleased to hear from NALS when we called to offer support, and was relieved to know there was even such a service.”
Continuing Support When You Need It Most
The NALS team understands that grief and the impact of suicide affects everyone differently and at different times. Many service users have expressed comfort in knowing they can return to the service when needed in the future.
“Already have recommended the service. Thank you for being there and good to know I can come back to you in future if required,” shared one grateful individual.
How to Access NALS
The National Advisory and Liaison Service is available to anyone in Wales who has been affected by suicide. Whether you need support immediately following a loss or are struggling months or years later, the NALS team is here to help.
If you or someone you know has been affected by suicide, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Support is available, and you don’t have to face this alone.
