Bereavement Support

Support, Understanding & Connection After Loss

Bereavement can affect every part of life, and everyone experiences grief differently. Whether your loss was recent or many years ago, our peer-led bereavement support services provide a safe, welcoming space where you can connect with others who understand.

People taking part in a bereavement support group at The Anthony Seddon Centre, sitting together in a welcoming environment and sharing conversation following the loss of a loved one.

 

What Is Bereavement Support?

A Safe Space to Talk, Listen and Feel Less Alone

Grief can feel overwhelming, isolating and difficult to explain to others. Our bereavement support gives people a safe, welcoming space to connect with others who have experienced loss, share as much or as little as they feel comfortable with, and receive support at their own pace.

Peer-Led Support

Our groups offer support alongside other people who understand how painful and complicated grief can feel.

No Pressure

You do not have to talk before you are ready. Some people find it helpful simply to sit, listen and be around others.

Support at Your Pace

Everyone experiences grief differently. Our support is gentle, informal and shaped around what feels right for you.

You do not need to face grief alone. Our bereavement support services provide a safe space to talk, listen and connect with others who understand loss.

Our Bereavement Services

Different Types of Support for Different Experiences of Grief

Everyone’s experience of bereavement is different. We offer a range of peer-led support options to help people connect with others, share experiences and access support in a way that feels right for them.

Bereavement Support Group

A welcoming peer support group for people who have experienced the loss of a loved one. The group provides a safe space to talk, listen and connect with others who understand grief.

Evening Session

2nd Tuesday of the Month
6:00pm – 7:30pm

Daytime Session

4th Thursday of the Month
10:00am – 11:30am

Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS)

A self-help support group for people who have been bereaved by suicide. The group offers an opportunity to listen, share experiences, ask questions and connect with others who understand the unique impact of suicide loss.

Monthly Group

3rd Tuesday of the Month
6:00pm – 7:30pm

8-Week Bereavement Support Programme

A structured programme designed to support people as they experience the isolation of grief and begin their journey towards adjusting to life after loss.

  • ✓ Safe and confidential environment
  • ✓ Support from other bereaved people
  • ✓ Practical tools and coping strategies
  • ✓ Guidance and signposting where needed

Programme Dates

Dates are announced throughout the year.
Contact us to register your interest.

Not sure which bereavement support option is right for you? Our team will be happy to talk through the different options and help you find the support that best meets your needs.

What Can You Expect?

A Welcoming, Understanding and Supportive Environment

Grief can often feel isolating, particularly when it seems that nobody around you fully understands what you are experiencing. Our bereavement support services provide a safe and supportive space where you can connect with others, share experiences and take things at your own pace.

A Safe Space

A confidential and supportive environment where you can talk openly about your grief without fear of judgement.

People taking part in bereavement support at The Anthony Seddon Fund.

Shared Understanding

Time with people who understand grief through their own lived experience and who can relate to the challenges of loss.

Listening Without Pressure

You are never expected to speak if you do not want to. Many people find it helpful simply to listen at first.

Time To Talk

Opportunities to share memories, feelings and experiences with people who genuinely understand the impact of bereavement.

Connection & Community

Supportive relationships can develop naturally through attending groups and connecting with others who have experienced loss.

People taking part in a bereavement support group at The Anthony Seddon Centre, sharing experiences and supporting one another.

Hope & Healing

Whilst grief never completely disappears, many people find comfort, resilience and renewed hope through connecting with others.

There is no right or wrong way to access bereavement support. Some people come to talk, some come to listen, and others simply find comfort in being around people who understand.

How Bereavement Support Can Help

Support for the Journey Through Grief

Grief affects everyone differently and there is no set path through bereavement. Whilst we cannot take away the pain of loss, many people find that connecting with others and accessing support helps them feel less alone and better equipped to navigate life after loss.

Reduce Isolation

Connect with others who understand bereavement and reduce the sense of loneliness that grief can sometimes bring.

Share Experiences

Talk openly about your experiences with people who understand the challenges and emotions that grief can bring.

Learn Coping Strategies

Discover practical tools and approaches that may help you manage difficult days and adjust to life after loss.

Build Support Networks

Develop supportive connections with others who can walk alongside you on your grief journey.

Understand Grief

Gain a better understanding of grief and reassurance that many of the emotions you are experiencing are normal.

Find Hope

Whilst grief becomes part of our story, many people find renewed hope, purpose and connection as they continue their journey forward.

Bereavement affects everyone differently. There is no timetable for grief and no expectation that you should be at a particular stage in your journey before accessing support.

Who Can Attend?

Bereavement Support for Adults Affected by Loss

Our bereavement support services are open to adults who have experienced the loss of someone important to them. Whether your bereavement was recent or many years ago, you are welcome to access support when the time feels right for you.

Adults Aged 18+

All bereavement support services are available to adults aged 18 and over.

Any Type of Bereavement

Support is available regardless of the type of loss you have experienced, including family members, partners, friends and others close to you.

Suicide Bereavement

We also offer dedicated support for people who have been bereaved by suicide through our SOBS support group.

Family Members

Support is available for parents, children, siblings, grandparents and extended family members.

Friends & Loved Ones

Grief is not limited to family relationships. Friends and other significant people affected by a loss are welcome.

Local Community

Our bereavement support services are available to people living in Tameside and surrounding areas.

There is no right time to seek bereavement support. Some people attend shortly after their loss, whilst others may not feel ready until months or years later. You are welcome whenever the time feels right for you.

New To TASFund?

We Know Taking the First Step Can Feel Difficult

Coming to a bereavement group for the first time can feel daunting, especially when you are already carrying the weight of grief. We will do our best to make you feel welcome, comfortable and supported from the moment you arrive.

A Friendly Welcome

When you arrive, a member of the team or group facilitator will help you settle in and explain what to expect.

No Pressure to Speak

You are welcome to share, listen, or simply be present. There is no expectation to talk before you feel ready.

Support at Your Pace

Everyone grieves differently. You can take things gently and access support in the way that feels right for you.

Many people feel nervous before attending for the first time. That is completely understandable. You are welcome to contact us beforehand if you would like to talk things through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions About Bereavement Support

Here are some of the questions people commonly ask before attending one of our bereavement support services.

Do I need to book?

Some bereavement services require booking in advance. If you are unsure, please contact reception and we will advise you on the most appropriate support option.

Do I have to speak during the group?

No. You are welcome to talk, listen or simply be present. Many people choose to listen during their first few sessions and share when they feel comfortable.

Is the support confidential?

Yes. We ask everyone attending our groups to respect each other’s privacy and maintain confidentiality, helping to create a safe and supportive environment.

What if my bereavement happened a long time ago?

There is no time limit on grief. Some people seek support shortly after a loss, whilst others may not feel ready until months or years later.

Which bereavement service is right for me?

This depends on your circumstances and the type of support you are looking for. If you are unsure, please contact us and we will help you explore the available options.

What is the difference between the groups and the 8-week programme?

Our groups provide ongoing peer support, whilst the 8-week programme offers a more structured approach to exploring grief, coping strategies and adjustment following bereavement.

Can I attend if I live outside Tameside?

In many cases, yes. Please contact us to discuss your circumstances and we will advise whether our bereavement support services are suitable for you.

Need Bereavement Support?

You Don’t Have to Face Grief Alone

Whether you are looking for a supportive group, support following a suicide bereavement, or would like to find out more about our bereavement programme, our team is here to help you explore the options available.

If you’re unsure which bereavement support option is right for you, please get in touch. We will be happy to talk through the different services and help you find the support that feels right for you.