Bereavement awareness day returns to support Tameside residents affected by loss

Tameside residents who have experienced loss are invited to attend a bereavement awareness day offering support, information and a safe space to connect with others who understand.

Together Through Loss will take place at Academy HQ in Stalybridge on Friday 30 January, from 12pm to 7pm. The free event is jointly organised by Tameside Council, Empowered to Thrive CIC, Finding Rainbows, and Mourning Brew, with support from Anthony Barton Funeral Service.

The awareness day builds on the success of the Never Walk Alone bereavement event held in November 2024 and is open to anyone who has experienced loss at any stage of their life. Organisers say the event aims to remind people that grief has no time limit, there is no right or wrong way to feel, and there is no expectation to “be okay”.

Visitors will be able to hear from speakers, speak openly about loss if they wish, and learn more about the local, ongoing support available across Tameside. A range of service stalls will be available on the day, including support from The Anthony Seddon Fund, Willow Wood Hospice, The Carers Centre, Epseminars, Jigsaw Homes wellbeing support, and the Tameside Pulmonary Fibrosis Support Group, among others.

Organisers say the event is designed to be flexible and inclusive, allowing attendees to share their experiences, listen quietly, or simply spend time in a compassionate environment alongside others who understand what it means to grieve.

Cllr Taf Sharif, Tameside Council Executive Member for Health and Equalities, said: “Grief affects every one of us at some point in our lives, yet it can often feel isolating or difficult to talk about.

“Together Through Loss is about reminding people that support is available, their feelings are valid, and they don’t have to navigate loss alone.

“I’m grateful to everyone involved for creating a warm and inclusive space for our residents.”

Anyone interested in attending can register for a free ticket in advance or simply drop in on the day. Further information and updates about the event are available via Empowered to Thrive’s website.