Guidance on how to help bereaved Muslims has come from AMINA, the Muslim Women’s Resource Centre in Govanhill.

On the day of the two-part booklet launch, it was clear there is a crying need for such information. ‘I could take 500 at least today,’ said Bashir Ahmad, MSP who formally launched ‘Helping Bereaved Muslims.’ As long ago as 1986 he and colleagues in the community set up a support scheme for anyone who was bereaved. ‘We could have done with it then but I’m glad of it now!’

AMINA had printed 100 copies funded by the Scottish Executive and the Race Equality and Community Integration Fund. Author Shamala Shaukat told the audience of mainly care and health professionals, ‘This came about through the services provided by AMINA. We have found it very important to give space to a person who has been bereaved. Often there is little knowledge of what to do so this booklet covers the practical terms and cultural practices. It provides evidence from the Koran or the books of Life Practices for the advice offered.’

Layla Mohammed of AMINA said the volunteers at the Women’s Resource Centre discovered that with the mixed social lives of most people coming to them, many people didn’t know how to deal with the multitude of emotions they experienced when someone died.

The booklet offers basic information to people who come into contact with Muslims at a time of loss to assist them to be culturally sensitive and aware in their support. This section is available in English, Urdu and Arabic languages.

Together with Cruse, the Bereavement Care Services, Amina devised the guidance because it was clear many people within and outwith the community were unsure of the correct procedures and protocols acceptable today in Scotland.

Based in the former school building at Network House, 311 Calder Street, G42 7NQ, Amina runs a Free telephone Helpline – 0808 801 0301 or email: helpline@mwrc.org.uk. The office administration is 0141 585 8026. Founded in 1997, the charity works with mainstream agencies and policy makers to enhance their understanding of the Muslim community and of the barriers  preventing Muslim women accessing services and participating in society.