Your questions answered

Janet Haddington is a qualified social worker and psychotherapist with experience in dealing with major incidents, such at the 7th July bombings. Here she answers some of the most common questions following the London attacks.

Q: Who is this website for?

A: This website is for anyone affected by the London bombings.

Maybe you are a survivor or have lost someone close to you. Perhaps you were in London or have been distressed generally by the events. Perhaps this event has revived difficult memories of another event in your life. If you have been affected we can help. More

Q: I wasn’t near the attacks on the day, but cannot get back to normal, am I OK?

A: It is not unusual to feel shock and disbelief that anyone could carry out such an act. For a while you may feel insecure and unsafe. Only if these feelings persist and prevent you carrying out your daily tasks should you consider whether you need to seek additional help. If possible, try talking to your family or friends and explain and share your concerns. Remember, you can always call us if you need to.

Q: I can’t sleep, is this normal?

A:There are all kinds of reasons why you may be experiencing difficulty sleeping. The London bombings have affected many people in a number of different ways and this should be a temporary effect. Try having a relaxing bath before you go to bed and read in bed or listen to soothing music. If after a month or so you are still experiencing difficulties seek the advice of your GP. Remember, you can always call us if you need to.

Q: I wasn’t physically injured but cannot get back to normal, what ’s wrong?

A: It is very difficult to comprehend the enormity of the bombings. You may be preoccupied with thoughts such as, ‘what if’, or ‘I could have been on that tube or bus.’ You may be thankful you are safe but feel great sorrow for those innocent victims. Only if you continue to experience difficulties should you seek professional help. You need time to come to terms with what has happened and you are trying to respond normally to a very abnormal event. Remember, you can always call us if you need to.

Q: I am too scared to use the tube or take a bus, am I normal?

A: You are responding normally. If you travel to work on public transport your sense of security will have been shaken and it is not inappropriate to be fearful for your own personal safety. It may take you several weeks to get back to normal. Try taking short journeys outside of busy times with the help of a friend or family member and if you continue to feel scared consider a visit to your GP or call the Help Line.

Q: I'm worried about a friend or relative and want to get in touch, can you help?

A: You can call our helpline (10am – 8pm weekdays and 10am – 5pm at weekends, including bank holidays) on Tel: .

Q: Who should call the helpline?

A: The helpline is for anyone affected by the London bombings. Maybe you are a survivor or have lost someone close to you. Perhaps you were in London or have been distressed generally by the events. Perhaps this event has revived difficult memories of another event in your life. If you have been affected we can help. More

Q: Who can visit the centre?

A: The centre is for anyone affected by the London bombings. Maybe you are a survivor or have lost someone close to you. Perhaps you were in London or have been distressed generally by the events. Perhaps this event has revived difficult memories of another event in your life. If you have been affected we can help. More


Q: Who is running the centre and helpline?

A: The centre is funded by the Government Department for Culture, Media and Sport and managed by Brent Bereavement Services (BBS) with the support of Westminster City Council. For more information click here

Q: Is there a support group of survivors from 7th July?

A: Support groups are held monthly in Westminster. Please call us for dates and times or refer to your copy of our monthly newsletter.

We are also developing groups for survivors in other parts of the country. If you would like details of these groups please call or e-mail.

Q: How is the Government supporting those affected by the bombings?

A: The Government’s response to the London bombings has involved many different departments and agencies. Click here for list of the main central government departments you might be in touch with.

If your question is not answered here you can call us or write to