Avenue Bereaved Parents Support Group
OUR STORY
Avenue Bereaved Parents Support Group is part of the worldwide organisation The Compassionate Friends. It offers a safe and supportive space for parents who have experienced the loss of a child, whatever the circumstances.
The group was founded in March 2015 following the loss of my daughter, Debbie, in a tragic accident in 2013. In seeking connection with others who understood this experience, the group was established, with the support of the Minister and Deacons, as a way to honour Debbie’s memory and support other bereaved parents.
We meet at Avenue once a month to talk openly about our shared experiences of grief, in a safe and respectful space where everyone is listened to in confidence.
There is no pressure to speak, but the opportunity to share is always there. We recognise that talking about our children can bring both comfort and emotion, and you are free to express that in whatever way feels right for you.
The group offers a space to connect with others who understand, share ideas that have been helpful, exchange or borrow books, and access useful information and leaflets.
We also have a photo board where you are welcome to share a photo of your child, as well as a Tree of Life cloth where you can add their name if you wish.
We usually meet on the first Monday of each month from 10:30am to 1:00pm in The Venue, although dates may vary slightly around Bank Holidays.
We also meet informally once a month at the Cliffs Pavilion coffee lounge, usually on a Tuesday morning midway through the month.