Grief Connections

Previously named GriefKind Space.

Anyone who is experiencing grief, bereavement or loss are welcome to visit ‘Grief Connections’ for bereavement support.

Bereavement Support Care Services page

What is Grief Connections?

Grief Connections is a free, drop-in group that meets every Friday from 10am – 12pm in the Bistro at the Hospice.

The group was previously established by Sue Ryder but is now managed by Arthur Rank Hospice Charity.

You do not need any connection to Arthur Rank Hospice Charity to attend. As an open-ended group, there is no set programme or commitment to attend for a specific length of time. You are welcome to come regularly or simply attend as and when you feel you would benefit from support.

Many people have been comforted by the support and friendships they have made there, which have reduced the feelings of isolation and loneliness.

One attendee shared:

“It’s an incredibly friendly, welcoming group and while we know that we’ve all suffered a loss, the group is also about the life after that, even mundane matters like shopping and cooking for one.”

Anyone who is experiencing grief, bereavement or loss are welcome to visit ‘Grief Connections’ for bereavement support.

FAQ's

Do I need a connection to the Charity to attend?

No, anyone who is experiencing grief, bereavement or loss is welcome to visit.

Do I need to book?

No, the group is a drop-in and you can attend whenever you feel comfortable.

Can I receive 1-1 support?

Grief Connections is not for 1-1 support but a group setting to speak with trained volunteers and others who may be experiencing grief or loss.

If you feel you need 1-1 support after a loss through Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, get in touch to see if this is something we can support you with.

How long do I need to stay?

The group runs from 10am – 12pm every Friday, but you do not have to stay for the entire time.

Is the venue accessible?

Yes, the group takes place at the Bistro at Arthur Rank Hospice Charity. The Bistro is on the ground floor with plenty of space for wheelchair access, plus there are designated blue badge spaces in our car park.

Are your services really free of charge?

Thanks to the dedication, commitment and generosity of the local community and the hard work of our senior leadership team to secure vital contracts with the NHS, all our services are free of charge.     

It will cost over £14.7 million this financial year to operate our services. Contracted services from the NHS are budgeted at £7.4 million, meaning that £7.3 million needs to be raised through donations, fundraising activities and trading. 

We are extremely grateful to our local community for the continual dedication, commitment and generosity they show in supporting us to meet this target.