Practical Support Guides

When the Small Jobs Feel the Biggest: How the National Grief Advice Service Is Helping You Cope

Losing a partner is one of life’s most painful experiences. While the emotional impact is overwhelming, what often comes as a surprise is how the absence of a loved one affects day-to-day living—especially when they were the one who handled those "small" but vital jobs around the home.

At the National Grief Advice Service, we understand that grief doesn't just show up emotionally—it echoes through the everyday tasks that suddenly feel impossible. Whether it’s changing a fuse, unclogging a sink, or knowing who to call for a boiler check, many people find themselves unprepared for the practical demands left behind.

That’s why we’ve created Practical Support Guides—simple, easy-to-follow resources designed to help you navigate common household jobs your partner may have once taken care of.

These include:

• Basic Electrical Maintenance (how to check a fuse, reset a breaker, change a light fitting)
• Plumbing Essentials (dealing with a leaky tap, blocked toilet, or bleeding a radiator)
• Home Safety Checks (how to test alarms, check locks, and feel safe in your space)
• Where to Find Trusted Help (guidance on choosing reliable local tradespeople)

We know these may sound like small things—but they’re not. When you’re grieving, every task can feel like a mountain. Our goal is to ease that burden and help you feel confident, capable, and supported in your home again.

Whether you want to tackle a job yourself, learn what to ask a professional, or just feel more in control, our guides are here for you—written with compassion, clarity, and understanding.

Because grief is more than loss—it’s life rearranged.

Let the National Grief Advice Service help you piece it back together, one small job at a time.

Basic Plumbing Tasks

Car Care

Cooking Skills

Basic Electrical Tasks