Cornwall Bereavement Day Press Release…
Cornwall Bereavement Day to help people access support across Cornwall
Cornwall Bereavement Network is to host its first Cornwall Bereavement Day at Truro Cathedral on Saturday 26 March, from 1.30-4pm.
The drop-in event aims to provide a central location from which people can access local bereavement services and connect with others who have suffered loss of friends or loved ones.
Organisations such as Penhaligon’s Friends, Suicide Liaison Service, Widowed and Young, The Good Grief Trust, and The Samaritans are just a few of the organisations that will be on hand to provide advice and support on the day.
A Good Grief Café will be set up in the venue, as well as children’s activities, crafts, and bereavement services across Cornwall.
Julie Parker, Chair of Cornwall Bereavement Network, says: “Our first meeting to connect bereavement organisations was just before the Covid epidemic hit. Since then, the network has been very active developing a website and raising awareness about the organisations that support people through bereavement. However, this is the first time we have been able to plan an event to reach out to the general public.
“Sadly, too many people have been affected by loss over the last couple of years and many have found it difficult to connect with friends and loved ones due to restrictions or health concerns. Without doubt, Covid has created an added layer of complexity to those experiencing grief and made it more complicated to access support.”
There are currently more than 80 organisations in Cornwall Bereavement Network, which was set up to help cross-referrals and to make it easier to find and access organisations that support those bereaved.
Kimberley Gray is co-ordinator for Widowed and Young in Cornwall and is also a member of Cornwall Bereavement Network. She says: “I found the peer-support group Widowed and Young a few months after I lost my husband Stuart, to cancer. It has been a lifeline and put me in touch with others locally who have experienced similar. It is comforting to be able to chat and socialise with people who just get it. I would urge anyone affected by bereavement to come along. It might feel daunting, but it’s a positive step towards healing yourself and others around you.”
Visitors are advised to park in one of the town centre car parks, or take the Park and Ride. Refreshments will be available.
For more information visit www.cornwallbereavementnetwork.org.