Local charity seeks to reach out during National Grief Awareness Week 2nd–8th December

As National Grief Awareness Week (NGAW) approaches, a local charity based in Erewash is reaching out across the UK to speak about the unique challenges of grief. Taking place from 2nd-8th December 2024, the period offers a crucial opportunity to raise awareness of the profound impact of grief and the support available for those facing loss.

For many, the death of a loved one is a painful and isolating experience. However, losing someone to suicide often brings an additional layer of complex grief. This type of grief can feel especially isolating, as individuals may struggle with feelings of guilt, confusion, and unanswered questions. 

During National Grief Awareness Week, Ilkeston-based Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide which was founded in 1991, is aiming to shed light on the specific needs of those who have lost someone to suicide, and how critical it is to offer them both emotional and practical support.

SoBS is committed to supporting individuals navigating this difficult journey with staff and volunteers able to speak about the signs of grief following suicide, the impact it has on survivors and how it can be supported.

Whether people are seeking advice for those affected by suicide loss or want to hear personal insights from people who understand the grief experience, SoBS offers a compassionate and informed perspective on the importance of grief support.

Services Include:

• Support Groups: Local peer support meetings across the UK where those who have lost a loved one to suicide can connect, share their experiences, and provide mutual support.
• Support line: People can call our national support line to talk about their loss. Phonelines are answered by trained volunteers who have been impacted by suicide, so can offer compassion and understanding.
• Online Services: Online forums and support groups that offer a space for individuals to connect, regardless of where they live.

About Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SoBS):
Founded in 1991, SoBS is the only national organisation offering peer-to-peer support to all those over the age of 18, impacted by suicide loss in the UK. The organisation offers a unique and distinct service for bereaved adults across the UK, run by the bereaved for the bereaved. Suicide recognises no social, ethnic or cultural boundaries and neither does SoBS. The helpline and groups are open to all survivors of bereavement by suicide aged 18 years and over.

SoBS is passionate about raising awareness of suicide grief and ensuring that those who are impacted have access to the support they need—both during the immediate aftermath of loss and in the months and years that follow.