Grief is something everyone experiences at some point in life, yet it often feels like one of the loneliest journeys. The Bereavement Café was created to change that—to provide a warm and welcoming space where people can come together, share their experiences, and find comfort in the company of others who truly understand.
A Safe Space for Everyone
Losing a loved one is never easy, and the emotions that come with it can be overwhelming. Whether it is sadness, anger, confusion, or even relief, there is no "right" way to grieve. The Bereavement Café offers a place to express those emotions without fear of judgement.
It is not just for those mourning a recent loss—it is for anyone affected by grief, whether it has been days, months, or even years. The service also supports those who work with children and young adults, helping them better understand and navigate grief in their environments.
How It All Began
The Bereavement Café was founded by Jane, who experienced the devastating loss of her husband in 2018. Left to navigate life with grieving children, she quickly realised how little support was available, particularly for young people. This led to training in bereavement support, not only for her own family but to help others who were struggling. It soon became clear that grief affects people of all ages and backgrounds, often leaving them isolated and unheard. From that realisation, The Bereavement Café was born.
Services Offered
A variety of services are available to provide support in different ways, ensuring that no one has to face grief alone.
Pop-up Cafés - Operating in Bolton, Wigan, and surrounding areas, these safe spaces offer people the chance to connect over a cup of tea or coffee. Sometimes, just having someone to talk to can make all the difference.
Grief Awareness Workshops - For individuals, schools, and businesses looking to better understand grief and how to support those experiencing loss, training sessions provide valuable insights and guidance.
Youth Bereavement Cafés - Grief can be especially challenging for children. Youth Cafés provide a safe space in schools and learning environments where young people can explore their emotions and develop healthy coping strategies.
Living with Loss Workshops - A five-week group programme designed to help individuals navigate daily life after loss, offering strategies for coping and finding moments of hope amidst the pain.
Support & Listening Service - Talking helps, and the peer-to-peer support service provides a safe and understanding space to share thoughts and feelings.
One-to-One Listening - For those who prefer a more personal approach, individual listening sessions are available, offering dedicated support.
More Than Just a Chat - The Bereavement Café is not a counselling service, but all staff and volunteers have lived experience of bereavement and have undergone training in understanding grief, loss, and bereavement. They bring a deep level of empathy, support, and genuine care that makes a real difference.
Breaking the Silence Around Grief
One of the main aims is to remove the stigma around talking about loss. Grief should not be a taboo subject—it is a natural part of life, and the more people talk about it, the better they can support each other.
By coming together, listening, and sharing, a community can be created where no one has to feel alone in their grief.
How to Get Involved
Whether seeking support, wanting to attend a workshop, or looking to partner with The Bereavement Café, there are many ways to get involved. Businesses can also support the work by becoming a 'Friend of The Bereavement Café' and helping to continue providing these vital services.
Wherever someone is on their grief journey, they do not have to face it alone. The Bereavement Café offers a place to talk, share, and find comfort.
