Bereavement
Café
Find comfort among friends
A safe place. Bereavement is something we all go through at some point in life, and it can leave us feeling lost and alone. That’s why we’ve created our Bereavement Café, a gentle, welcoming space where you don’t have to face grief on your own.
Everyone here has experienced loss, so you’ll meet others who truly understand. Some months we have a general discussion, other times people share their stories, but there's never any pressure. Just come as you are. A warm welcome awaits.
About Bereavement Café
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Grief can be deeply isolating. After a bereavement, many people find that support fades over time, while their feelings of loss remain.
It can be difficult to talk openly about grief, and people often feel they need to “carry on” or protect others from their emotions — leaving them feeling alone in their experience.
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The Bereavement Café is a relaxed, supportive group where people can come together over a cup of tea or coffee in a safe and understanding environment.
There is no pressure to talk — participants can share their experiences or simply listen. The space is gently facilitated to ensure it remains respectful, compassionate, and supportive for everyone.
It’s about being alongside others who understand grief, in a way that feels natural and human.
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Reduce isolation following bereavement
Provide a safe space to talk about loss
Offer comfort through shared understanding
Support emotional wellbeing
Help people feel less alone in their grief
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Informal group setting (café-style environment)
Regular sessions (e.g. weekly or monthly)
Lightly facilitated by trained staff or volunteers
Tea, coffee, and refreshments available
No pressure to speak — participants can engage at their own pace
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This group is for anyone who:
Has experienced bereavement (recent or in the past)
Would like to connect with others who understand loss
Is looking for a gentle, supportive environment
There is no “right time” to attend — people are welcome whenever it feels right for them.
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People who attend often:
Feel less alone in their grief
Gain comfort from shared experiences
Build connections with others
Feel more able to talk about their loss
Experience moments of relief, understanding, and support
“It’s a place where I don’t have to explain how I feel — people just understand.”
Join us at the Bereavement Café
Held at Befriended Hub in Ditchling 10-11.30am and 12-1.30pm in the lounge area of St Andrews Church, the café is open over lunchtime on the 1st Thursday of each month. Tea, coffee, cake, and friendly faces always provided.
Befriended is looking for partnership funding to facilitate the rollout of this activity.
If you or your organisation are interested in supporting this project, please contact Gail Millar, CEO of Befriended.