Sadly so many more people have suffered the grief of losing a loved one during the pandemic, and the experience of staff at Compton Care is that very few men attend the network of bereavement hubs that they have in place.
The two charities have already linked up to run online sessions for men who have lost a family member or friend, but are now planning a monthly face-to-face hub on the first Thursday of every month at Molineux, starting on September 2nd (6pm-7.30pm).
“Sadly we know a lot of people have experienced bereavement over the last 18 months or so, both because of the pandemic and other factors, and it has been difficult to properly grieve with all the different restrictions,” says Wolves Foundation’s Health & Wellbeing Manager, Rachel Smith.
“We have been working with Compton Care as they had been saying that very few men were attending the hubs that they have in place, so we are hoping to engage men and let them know that support is available if they need it.
“We know that bereavement is a very sensitive topic, and people deal with grief in different ways, but this will be a safe space and a welcoming environment for men who might be in need of advice and information.
“We have seen from our Head 4 Health programme where men have come together to discuss and improve their mental health, that, with a bit of encouragement, the chance to share stories and meet people going through similar experiences can often be a source of comfort.
“We are really grateful to Compton Care for joining up on this project and offering their invaluable expertise to support men who have suffered a bereavement.”
The sessions will take place in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with experienced staff and volunteers on hand to offer various strands of support.
“We are excited to be working in partnership with Wolves Foundation and to have this opportunity to create a friendly space for men to meet others with similar experiences,” says Marianne Grant, Partnership Development Manager at Compton Care.
“All our hubs provide an opportunity for people to find bereavement information and support locally, whilst improving the wellbeing of those affected.”
Any men wishing to register for the sessions or to find out more information can email compassionatecommunities@comptoncare.org.uk or call (01902) 774570 or email rachelsmith@wolves.co.uk or call (07532) 411166.
