A new bereavement support group is launching in Lichfield.

It will be introduced by charity Cruse Bereavement Care who have been offering one-to-one support for adults and children for several years.

However they have now opted to introduce the new group, which will start on September 11 and meet fortnightly until Christmas.

“Some people would prefer to join a group of bereaved people and obtain support within that environment,” a spokesperson said. “Not everyone wants to be in the focus of one-to-one support and the possible emotional intensity.

“This group will give anyone who wants to join the opportunity to meet with others who are in a similar position and who are grieving for someone who has died.

“The meetings provide an opportunity to find support away from their own family who may be dealing with their grief in their own way.

“All are welcome to attend irrespective of whether theirs is a recent bereavement or one which happened a considerable time ago. Everyone’s grief is different and it can be a long and lonely journey, but being with other people who are in a similar position can be a comfort and a tremendous source of strength.

Trained volunteers will lead the group and help members manage the strong emotions surrounding bereavements.

“At the group meetings everyone can be themselves and treat the meeting as a safe haven in which they can explore what is happening to them and how they feel and to discuss how they can cope with the situation and start to face the future when they are ready,” the spokesperson added.

“They will be in charge of what personal information they share and when, or if they simply want to listen.

“The meetings can also have light-hearted moments – it all helps the group to understand and share each others’ grief journey.

“If individuals prefer, they have the option to move to one-to-one support.”

The first meeting on Wednesday will run from 1pm to 2.30pm in the Ashmole Room at the Lichfield Guildhall.

For more information or to book a place call 01543 433479 or email [email protected].

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.