Each of the sessions are divided into two parts – the first, led by two experienced volunteers from St Giles Hospice, involves a group discussion where bereaved people can share and talk to others about their experiences and feelings.
In the second part of the session, guest speakers from fields such as fitness, finance and nutrition will provide helpful information such as how to keep fit, common financial advice and how to cook healthily for one. These professionals will only provide information and advice, and will not sell any services.
The full six-week schedule of sessions is as follows:
- week 1 – introductory session
- week 2 – coping with bereavement
- week 3 – life changes
- week 4 – nutrition and fitness
- week 5 – personal finance
- week 6 – facilities in the local community.
The weekly sessions will be held in a private room in a local restaurant in Lichfield, and will help people to find out about different ways to manage their lives and look to the future.
Holding Hands began in November 2011, and is a six-week session, based on small group sizes and is the third of its kind to be run so far.
Nikki Archer, supportive care manager for St Giles Hospice, says: “When a person loses a friend or a family member, their life changes dramatically – and they are often left unsure of how to cope with even the most everyday things.
“At our Holding Hands Group sessions, informed speakers will offer people worthwhile tips and strategies that can help them get back on their feet following a loss.
“These helpful meetings will also allow people to speak with others who are going through similar experiences and we hope this will provide them with a valuable source of comfort.”
Amy Hazel from Ian Hazel Funerals said: “We are pleased to be able to set up and provide this service to our clients and the wider community, where we feel it is providing much needed service and support to the recently bereaved”.
More information about the sessions can be found on the St Giles Hospice website. To book a place or find out more about the Holding Hands Group, please call Amy at Ian Hazel Funerals on 0121 308 2288.
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