Time to 'Shine a Light' on grief say charities

Hospice and Cruse Bereavement hosting 'pop-up cafe' to offer support

Two charities on the Isle of Man are joining forces to offer support in National Grief Awareness Week.

It takes place from today (2 December) to Sunday (8 December) and this year’s theme is ‘Shine a Light’.

Cruse Bereavement Support Isle of Man and Hospice Isle of Man will host a pop-up grief café at the Santander Work Café on Thursday (5 December).

The event will run between 12pm and 4pm and offer people further advice and information.  

Hospice Chief Executive John Knight said: "We hope this will help to break down stigmas surrounding grief by ‘Shining a Light’ on it and opening up conversations around grief to create a more compassionate community for those navigating loss.

“Hospice has always supported bereaved family members and loved ones but we have recently expanded our support to the wider male population through our newly formed ‘Social Gents’ group.

“This is a result of seeing first-hand the need for more accessible and tailored support networks for those who have suffered a bereavement.

“Bringing people together for a cuppa, in a friendly relaxed space, can help anyone affected by a loss, to feel less alone and isolated and can encourage new connections and friendships in the local area.”

Mary Doyle is the Chief Executive of Cruse Bereavement Support Isle of Man and added: “Understanding grief is vital for anyone who has experienced loss.

“It's important to know that there's no right or wrong way to grieve and that it can affect people in different ways.

“Seeking support is a sign of strength but often knowing where to turn for help can be a major barrier to taking that first step.

“We want to let people know that we are here to offer listening support for anyone, regardless of who has died or how long it has been since they died.”

Both spoke to Chanelle Sukhoo:

And you can hear more from Mary and John in this episode of NEWSCAST: