National Grief Awareness Week is a moment each year when the UK comes together to shine a light on something universal, human, and often deeply misunderstood: grief. This year's theme is Growing with Grief: working together to find ways to become stronger, healthier and laying down roots for the future. You can learn more at https://www.thegoodgrieftrust.org/ngaw/

Whether your loss is recent or many years past, grief has no timetable. It can rise, fall, soften and surge. And while it looks different for everyone, one thing remains true: we cope better when we feel supported, connected, and understood.

Why This Week Matters

Grief is not something to “get over”. It’s something we learn to live with.
National Grief Awareness Week encourages open conversation, challenges stigma, and reminds anyone who is struggling that they are not alone.

This week is an opportunity to:

• Talk about the person you miss

• Ask for support

• Listen to someone who needs to be heard

• Remember that grief isn’t a sign of weakness — it’s a reflection of love

If You’re Supporting Someone Grieving

You don’t need perfect words. You just need to show up.
Simple things help more than people realise:

• “I’m here if you want to talk.”

• “Tell me about them.”

• “How can I support you today?”

Small acts of kindness can make a huge difference.

How The Farewell Guide Can Help

Grief often triggers difficult practical decisions — sometimes quickly, sometimes unexpectedly. If you’re arranging a funeral, The Farewell Guide helps you:

• Search for a funeral director by postcode, services and compliance

• Record funeral wishes so future decisions feel less overwhelming

• Share wishes with loved ones, offering clarity at a time of uncertainty

Clear guidance doesn’t take away grief, but it can make the process gentler.

You’re Not Alone. Here Are UK Helplines

If this week feels heavy, these organisations are here to support you:

Adult Bereavement Support

• Cruse Bereavement Support – 0808 808 1677

• Samaritans – 116 123 (24/7)

• The Good Grief Trust – national support hub

Support for Children & Young People

• Child Bereavement UK – 0800 02 888 40

• Winston’s Wish – 08088 020 021

• YoungMinds Parents Helpline – 0808 802 5544

A Final Thought

Grief is love, just in a different form.

This week, give yourself permission to talk, to remember, to reach out, and to heal at your own pace.