Cruse Scotland has opened new counselling rooms in Glasgow.

The move, on October 7, aims to provide more support to those struggling with the death of a loved one.

The new centre in Cowcaddens is the first permanent space since the charity closed its previous location in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The charity has been offering free services such as one-to-one counselling sessions, a helpline, early support, and specialist help for children and young people for more than 60 years.

Miss GB Glasgow visiting a newly opened counselling roomMiss GB Glasgow visiting a newly opened counselling room (Image: Supplied) The new counselling rooms were opened by Olivia Sharkey, a funeral service operator and long-term supporter of Cruse Scotland. She has raised more than £1,500 for the charity in the past year. She was recently named Miss GB Glasgow and will compete for the Miss GB crown later this month.

The charity hopes to return in-person support in Glasgow to pre-pandemic levels over the coming year.

Guests mingling at the opening of a newly opened counselling roomGuests mingling at the opening of a newly opened counselling room (Image: Supplied) Nicola Reed, director of client services, Cruse Scotland, said: "The COVID-19 pandemic prevented clients from receiving much-needed face-to-face bereavement support, instead receiving support online or by phone.

"The opening of our new Glasgow counselling rooms is an important milestone in us getting back on track in delivering the level of in-person support we saw before the pandemic. We want to ensure that no one struggles alone with their grief and that in-person counselling sessions continue to be available for our clients. We are also delighted that this space will be a place of connection for our staff and volunteers."

Guests visiting a newly opened counselling roomGuests visiting a newly opened counselling room (Image: Supplied) Olivia said: "I’m delighted to be here today in Glasgow cutting the ribbon to Cruse Scotland’s new Counselling Rooms. As someone who works in the funeral industry, I see first-hand the impact that grief can have.

"Bereavement will affect us all at some point in our lives, and for those struggling to cope, Cruse Scotland’s support services are here - and it is great to see the charity being able to reach and support more people face-to-face in the west."

The opening comes just days ahead of World Mental Health Day on October 10. Those in need of support can visit Cruse Scotland's website for more information.