People, Person, Adult

Services for universities

Through training, consultancy, workshops and events, we support universities and student unions to improve bereavement support and build a more positive grief culture for students and staff.


“Incredibly professional. A moving and interesting presentation to members who had plenty of questions, which Anna answered with warmth and confidence. A useful and informative session on a sensitive topic.”

– Dr. Rachel Spacey,
University Mental Health Advisers Network

“This training is an invaluable tool for universities. It enables staff to begin to know what is useful in coming alongside students in grief and to feel supported through a very tricky topic.”

– Jenni Thomas OBE,
Founder of Child Bereavement UK

Training

Our training programme provides compassionate learnings about grief and equips staff to support students in times of need.

We deliver this as a half-day session for a group of up to 12 staff. We also offer introductory webinars, and are happy to work with you to find the best format.

We cover:

  • The emotional, physical, social and practical impacts of loss.
  • Specific issues faced by young adults and at university.
  • Cultural considerations and international students.
  • Complicated grief, including suicide loss.
  • How to offer support and have sensitive conversations.
  • Where to signpost for further help, and possible barriers.
  • Protecting your own wellbeing while supporting others.

“You created a space where we felt safe to open up and empowered us to ask questions and contribute to discussions, helping us grow and learn together.”

– Training participant

Consultancy

Bereavement poses health and wellbeing challenges with a knock-on effect in education and employment. The right support can help reduce these risks and address the ongoing needs of students and staff.

The nature of our work includes:

  • Understanding your current culture around grief.
  • Reviewing existing policies and procedures and making recommendations.
  • Support with comms and resource creation.
  • Support building internal support systems for students and staff, including support setting up groups.
  • Initial-response support and strategy when a student or staff member dies.

“Thanks for facilitating conversations which have enhanced our knowledge and
capacity to support our students and ourselves. Your delivery is knowledgeable, practical and
compassionate.”

Training participant

Workshops & Events

We can join you on campus or work remotely to deliver support for bereaved students and staff. Our goal is to create dynamic spaces that support people to better understand their experience, feel less alone, build tools for coping, and feel empowered through their grief journey.

This could look like:

  • An interactive display/ stall.
  • A quiet drop-in space on campus.
  • Guided workshops (series or one-off).
  • Talk and film screening.

“I’ve stopped bottling things up. I’ve said more about how I really feel in a few hours than I have for years. It’s really helped me deal with things.”

– Student workshop attendee

“A moving exploration of grief and connection. You successfully united a room full of strangers through shared experience of one of the rawest parts of being human.”

– Film screening & talk attendee