Our Support Groups Need Your Support
The cost of living crisis isn’t just impacting individuals, it’s squeezing charities like ours. Higher costs, fewer donations, and fierce competition for grants threaten our ability to provide vital grief support. But the need is growing, not shrinking. In the first few months of 2023 alone, we’ve seen a 26% surge in people seeking support.…
Stand Up for The Loss Foundation – Comedy Night 2024
The funniest night of the year is back! Stand Up for The Loss Foundation, the comedy night of the year, is back by popular demand for the 9th year. On the 19th of July 2024, join us at the Union Chapel Islington for an evening of uproarious comedy. Your attendance not only promises laughter but…
Opening Up The Conversation on National Tea Day
When someone experiences a bereavement it can be really hard to know what to say and many of us clam up and may decide it’s better not to talk about the person’s loss or grief at all for fear of getting it wrong or upsetting them. Today (Sunday 21st April 2024) marks National Tea Day,…
Our April Books for Grief – New and Upcoming Releases
This month, as spring begins, we bring you a list of new and upcoming books for grief. From heartfelt memoirs to transformative approaches to grief, explore how books can support you after loss, offering relatable content and tools or techniques to manage the challenges that arise from grief. Visit our ‘Books for Grief’ page for…
Announcing the Launch of “The Care Kit for Supporting Grieving Employees”
We are proud to introduce our latest resource aimed at fostering compassion and support within the workplace: The Care Kit for Supporting Grieving Employees. At The Loss Foundation, we understand that navigating grief in the workplace can be challenging for both employees and employers. With this in mind, we have crafted a comprehensive guide filled…
Our March Books for Grief – New and Upcoming Releases
Coping with grief and all that arises from it can feel like a constant cycle through challenges and changing emotions. Those who use our services often tell us that books addressing grief can provide comfort, understanding, and support during tough times. Whether you’re seeking understanding, solace, or narratives that resonate with your own journey through…
Tips for Coping with Mother’s Day
If you’ve lost your mum you’ll only be too aware that celebrations like birthdays and Christmases are stark reminders of your mum’s absence. Mother’s Day can loom large on the calendar as an empty space whilst your friends take their mums out for lunch and shops, and brands up their marketing ante as you scramble…
Our February Books for Grief – Upcoming Releases
Navigating grief is a journey of emotions. Books on this subject offer solace, empathy, and a path to healing during tough times. Whether seeking insight, comfort, or relatable stories of loss, check out these upcoming reads on grief and bereavement (visit our dedicated page on books for grief for more suggestions). As an Amazon Associate,…
Navigating Grief: Suggestions for Coping with Loss from our Community
Experiencing a bereavement can feel totally overwhelming; like you’re out at sea and you have no idea if you’ll ever see the shore again. You may feel a myriad of emotions from anger to disbelief, guilt or profound sadness. We asked our Instagram followers for their tips on how to cope with a bereavement and…
Join Us for the London to Brighton Bike Ride 2024: Ride in Memory of Your Loved One
We’re excited to announce that we’ve secured places for the 2024 London to Brighton Bike Ride. Taking place on June 16th, we’re inviting you along for the ride – a memorable journey in honour of our loved ones. The London to Brighton Bike Ride is an experience like no other, and is open to everyone.…
Our January Books for Grief – Upcoming Releases
Navigating through grief is a journey of many emotions. Books which delve into this intricate subject can provide solace, empathy, and a path to recovery during difficult moments. Whether you’re in pursuit of insight, consolation, or a story of loss you can connect with, below are some upcoming reads that explore grief and bereavement. As…
10 Ways to Practice Self Care in Grief
Grief, an intricate and inevitable part of the human experience, can feel like an unpredictable tide, leaving us with emotions that range from heartache to healing. The loss of a loved one shakes the very core of our being, upending routines, and altering perspectives in ways we might not be prepared for. In these moments…
Needing a Space
We often start our bereavement support group sessions by asking if anybody wants to share anything in particular; how they have been, what they are finding difficult, a story of their loved one, etc. This often sparks interesting discussions; often people share that they cannot put into words why they come to the groups. It…
Grief at Christmas
As soon as November and December comes around, it is hard to ignore Christmas – it is everywhere: reminders are in the shop windows, Mariah Carey is on the radio, the Coca Cola advert is on the television… Christmas and New Year is understandably a very difficult time of year for people who are grieving and…
How Do I Approach Bereavement?
Each of us have different approaches towards bereavement and grief – we all have different views and different needs when dealing with loss. Some people gravitate to being around family and friends, whereas other might want to be around people who have experienced something similar, which could lead them to support groups such as ours.…
Grief Comes in Waves
This piece about grief was taken from a Reddit page which you can access by clicking here. Grief Resources Grief, sleep and anxiety worksheets for grieving individuals & mental health professionals. Available on a ‘Donate What You Can’ basis, whether you donate nothing or something, our aim is to support you. If you do donate, you’ll also enable someone else to…
Trying to Remember and Wanting to Forget
In the last days of a loved one’s life we may find ourselves focusing on remembering every last detail, knowing it may be one of the last moments that we get to experience with that person. However, this is a bittersweet endeavour as our loved ones may not be how we want to remember them,…
Aiming for Normality
Many people just attempt to maintain a “normal life” following the death of a loved one. This can range from returning to work, visiting family members, spending time with friends, and even just leaving the house for a walk. Whether it is six months or six years since your loved one passed away it can…
We All Need Outlets
Our Loss Foundation bereavement support groups and events provide a great opportunity for people to share where they are at with grief. It is not uncommon for people to feel like they are doing reasonably ok at coping one day, but feel completely bereft and hopeless the next. And that can be a scary feeling.…
How Do I Adapt to Loss?
At our Loss Foundation bereavement support events we often find ourselves talking about what it is like adapting to a life without our loved ones; the emotions it evokes, the smallest of reminders that take us by surprise, the unpredictable nature of grief, and how we find ourselves oscillating between coping and not coping. For…
Turn Your Old Clothes into Compassion: Partnering with ‘We Recycle Clothes’ to Support The Loss Foundation
At The Loss Foundation, we’re constantly seeking innovative ways to support those affected by cancer bereavement and offer help when it’s needed most. We’re thrilled to announce our new partnership with ‘We Recycle Clothes,’ a sustainable initiative that allows you to turn your old clothes, handbags, shoes, and accessories into funds for our vital work. …
Loving Again – Grief and New Relationships
When a beloved partner of ours dies, the topic of having new romantic relationships may arise at some point, either in comments from others, or thoughts of our own. What do we think about embarking on a new romantic relationship? Is it something that we think is possible? Is it something that we suddenly feel…
Coping
What does it feel like to be coping with loss, or indeed, what does it feels like to be not coping with it? We all have expectations of ourselves in terms of how we deal with certain things, but remember that grief can pull the rug from under you in a way that prevents you…
Anniversaries and Events when Grieving
A common theme that arises in discussions at our Loss Foundation bereavement support get togethers is that of anniversaries and special events. This is especially poignant around Christmas and New year, but also moves on to other ‘events’. A main one is the first anniversary of a loved one’s passing; which can seem like a…
Triggers in Grief
Unexpected triggers can pop up day-to-day catching you off guard with your grief and bringing on a surge of emotions, whether it be walking down a supermarket aisle or seeing the first strawberries of the season. These small reminders throughout the day can bring up many different memories, emotions, thoughts and more. This reminds us…
2022 – Everything We’ve Achieved
“Bereavement is like a madness – like you’re on this ocean and you don’t know wide it is, how deep it is, you don’t know what direction you’re heading in” – Peter Christmas can be such a difficult time for those who are missing someone special. Don’t feel like you have to do this alone.…
Getting Over the Next Hurdle
There are many events during the year that people struggle to navigate following a bereavement; as well as other milestones like birthdays, or anniversaries. We are surrounded by reminders of occasions like these at our every turn with messages bombarding us about celebrations and coming together with the people we love. If you don’t feel…
Feeling Isolated
Feeling isolated is a common experience after a loved one has died, particularly after an initial burst of extra support around the time our loved one dies, e.g. the coming together for the funeral or the busy organisation that is required in the immediate aftermath of death. When these things have passed life can feel…
Acceptance
At our bereavement support support group sessions we sometimes find ourselves discussing the word ‘acceptance’. “What do I need to do to accept my loss?” “How do I get ‘there’? Theories of grief often talk about ‘stages’ in the bereavement process. Many think of Kubler Ross’s theory of grief and wonder how and what it…
Navigating Conversations with Grieving Colleagues
Have you ever bumped into a colleague returning from bereavement leave and drawn a blank on what to say? You’re not alone. Many of us struggle with navigating conversations about loss. To be blunt, there’s no magic formula to erase someone’s pain. But there are ways to turn an awkward encounter into a moment of…
How to Request Bereavement Leave: A Step-by-Step Guide
The loss of a loved one is a deeply unique and challenging experience. While navigating grief, you may also need to manage practicalities, including taking time off work. Bereavement leave, offered by many companies, allows space to grieve and address necessary arrangements. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to request bereavement leave: Step 1: Notify…
Feeling Anger
It can be hard to see others enjoying the relationships you have lost and this can lead to associated feelings of anger and resentment. People sometimes express feeling guilty and often not knowing how to deal with these feelings of anger when they arise. Anger is a natural, appropriate, and most importantly understandable emotion in grief. …
Caring for the Carers
Across our Loss Foundation support events we feel privileged to hear your stories and experiences. It takes strength to reach out for support and speak about a loss, and we never underestimate how difficult it can be to do just that. At the same time, we are constantly witnessing the benefits of talking and being…
Rebecca’s Story
For Tom Ellis, who always thought my writing was funny. Are we ravinnnn. Before the age of 21 my only knowledge of ‘losing a parent’ was being stood in Asda in sheer panic looking for Mum or Dad down each aisle. Unfortunately I now know the true and the worst extent of losing a parent.…
Overview of Bereavement Leave: Explaining its Importance and Purpose
At The Loss Foundation, we know all too well the profound impact of grief. Every day, we hear first hand from those grappling with the loss of a loved one. It’s a deeply personal experience, and the emotional toll can be immense. That’s why bereavement leave offered by many companies is such a crucial support…
Anxiety Meditation Audio – Created by Clinical Psychologist Dr Erin Hope Thompson
“Navigating life’s complexities can feel overwhelming at times. These anxiety meditation audio resources aim to equip you with tools to nurture your well-being, irrespective of the challenges you face. Coupled with our empowering worksheets, they stand as a toolkit for self-reflection and resilience” – Dr. Erin Hope Thompson MBE – Founder and Director of The…
Anxiety Worksheets – Created by Clinical Psychologist Dr Erin Hope Thompson
“Navigating anxiety can often feel like an overwhelming journey. These tailored worksheets are designed to shine a light on different facets of your personal anxiety experience, offering tools and strategies crafted to nurture your mental well-being” – Dr. Erin Hope Thompson MBE – Founder and Director of The Loss Foundation Crafted by Dr. Erin Hope…
Join our Team
Bereavement charity run by Clinical Psychologists Looking for new Bereavement Support Volunteers (National) The Loss Foundation is a registered charity specialising in providing bereavement support for people whose loved ones die of cancer. The charity is run by volunteer clinical psychologists and doctors (qualified and in training), as well as those from other professions. In…
My Grief Wave
It can creep up on me, Sweeping over, engulfing that moment. I try to rush to the surface of the bewilderment, Take a breath, Questioning how that happened so silently. Sigh, I remember now, Life has changed as I once knew it. I think of what Dad would want for me, what he would say,…
How the World is Crying Out for Support, and Who is Answering
We are delighted to share a blog post from one of our very own volunteers, Sam Davies, about his experience of running our online bereavement support groups. From Cancer to Coronavirus: How the world is crying out for support, and who is answering Every day now for what seems to have been a lifetime length…
Now it’s our Turn to Ask for Help – 20 for 20 Appeal
The right support at the right time can make all the difference. At The Loss Foundation, we know that more than most… When I set up the Loss Foundation back in 2010, it was on the back of experiencing a complete lack of support when my own father died of cancer. Having wobbled myself, I…
Coping Strategies After a Bereavement
Some coping strategies after a bereavement could make grieving worse, University of Oxford study finds By Dr Kirsten Smith, University of Oxford and unpaid trustee of The Loss Foundation Grieving is normal and to be expected after a loved one dies. But what makes it particularly severe for some individuals, and could learning more about…
The Art of Not Falling Apart
As an ambitious columnist at The Independent, Christina Patterson’s passion for her job sustained her through her turbulent pursuit of love and family – until her editor unexpectedly made her redundant, that is. While it would have been all too easy for Patterson to wallow in self-pity, she instead turns her rejection into a positive…
Bringing People Together After Loss
After my father died of cancer in 2008, my family and I struggled to find the support we needed. The help there was, if any was available at all, seemed to be time-limited and dictated by where we lived. It was also disappointing that we didn’t have the opportunity to meet others who were going…
Today it is Me that Writes…
Everywhere I turn, it touches me, someone I love, someone I have just met, someone I have supported, and undoubtedly every second person I walk past in the street. Cancer. Today my good friend’s aunt is taken from our world and into the next. She steps into a world we could never know of in…
Jamie’s story
My name is Jamie. I’m 35-years old and live in London. My twin brother, Charlie, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2018 and died two months after diagnosis. To say my family and I were devastated is an understatement – I felt like part of me died. My brother Charlie was… it pains me to…
Taking Our Own Advice in Grief
Many of the people we support at The Loss Foundation express frustration at a lack of receiving useful information when they become bereaved; nobody tells you that you may lose your concentration, your confidence, your appetite, that you may become more irritable, that you may be disappointed by those you relied on… And so much…
Modern Loss: Candid Conversation about Grief by Rebecca Soffer and Gabrielle Birkner
Thank you so much to Helena, a friend of The Loss Foundation, for her review of Modern Loss: Candid Conversation about Grief by Rebecca Soffer and Gabrielle Birkner. “Honest, insightful, empathetic, uplifting. These are only a few of the words that describe Modern Loss, an extensive collection of personal essays about death and loss, and the…
Conducting Ethical Research with Vulnerable Populations
At The Loss Foundation we are committed to learning more about peoples’ experiences of bereavement to better inform the support services that we provide. We are dedicated to providing a service that is informed by your experiences and needs. In order to achieve this goal we carry out a number of research projects ourselves and partake…
My Mind is All Over the Place
We often have diverse attendees at our support events; younger and older members, people who have lost partners and parents, people who had been newly bereaved, and people who had been bereaved for a while longer (although still recently in the scheme of things!) Diversity can often be a theme of discussion at our events,…
Paramjit’s story
My wife was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2007, eventually losing her battle in May 2017. I share my story to help others who might have had similar experience with their own loss, and also to help raise awareness of this horrible disease. She was a very loving/caring wife, mother and grandmother and was very active,…
A Poem from a Group Member
Sorrow, Sadness, Anguish, Physical and Emotional Pain, Emptiness and Aloneness, I have experienced all of them since you went away. They say Love is not without Pain, that there is a dying to ourselves, when the other is away. It is better to have Loved, than not at all. I have so much gratitude, that…
The Long Goodbye: A Memoir by Megan O’Rourke
Thank you so much to Helena, a friend of The Loss Foundation, who has written this review on ‘The Long Goodbye’ by Megan O’Rourke. “No matter whether you’re grieving a loss that occurred weeks, months or years ago, Megan O’Rourke’s personal account of her mother’s death provides eye-opening food for thought on coping with bereavement. In The…
Lyrics for Loss
Following one of our groups, one of our beneficiaries kindly shared their thoughts which we thought may be helpful for all: “As is normal with me on my home from a group session, I often think about what we talked about and what was said; especially being somewhat of a reflector. At this group I…
The Support of Families and Strangers
Grief is a deeply individual experience, and one person’s experience after one month may or may not be similar to someone who has been bereaved for the same length of time. Grief is not a one-size-fits-all, and there is no set linear timescale that applies when living beyond a loved one’s passing, no matter what…
I Speak for Us All
I was 30 years old when my wife died. Eight months previously she had been diagnosed with small cell cancer, triggered apparently by becoming pregnant with what would have been our first child. The tumour was growing rapidly on her liver, fuelled by the growth hormones from the pregnancy. In order to save one life,…
Grief, it’s a Personal Journey
Loss can leave us feeling vulnerable and isolated, and so we would like to acknowledge the strength and bravery that it takes to come along to a bereavement support session, be it the first time, or the return after some time away. For some, bereavement is a relatively new experience whereas for others, it is…
In Spirit
Thank you to Elizabeth who shared this beautiful poem with us: I have left the earth, But I am still about, I kiss your cheek at night When your light is out. I am the wind That blows in your hair, I am spirit now, I am near. I sit on your shoulder, I see…
Expectations
When grieving we can often find ourselves anticipating and focusing on particular dates, e.g. anniversaries (good and bad) or birthdays. These dates can provide a sense of anticipatory anxiety as we may expect that those dates will be awful. We often search for ways of coping and feeling supported in order to get through each…