Supporting People Through Loss: Bereavement Support in Practice

As specialists in bereavement support, Dorothy House Hospice is offering an interactive and experiential one-day training programme designed specifically for those providing pastoral and spiritual care. 

Recognising the sensitive nature of this work, a key priority throughout the day will be the creation of a safe, confidential and supportive learning environment. Participants will have the opportunity to reflect on their own experiences, explore challenges they may encounter in ministry, and develop confidence in supporting those facing loss and bereavement. 

This training will provide an opportunity to explore: 

• Theories and models of grief and bereavement. 

• Factors that influence how individuals and families cope with an incurable diagnosis and subsequent bereavement. 

• Briefly consider different cultural perspectives and beliefs surrounding death, dying and mourning. 

• Approaches to initiating and facilitating conversations about death and dying. 

• Practical ways of supporting individuals and families through grief and bereavement. 

• Strategies for maintaining personal wellbeing and resilience while providing compassionate support to others. 

Anyone working in church ministry who would like to understand more about grief and bereavement and feel better equipped to support the people in their care.

This session will be delivered by Anne Montague (Education + Professional Development Lead).

As a counsellor and psychotherapist with 25 years experience working with individuals affected by life limiting illness and bereavement Anne is passionate about the value of effective communication in palliative and EOL care. She has recently joined the education team after 12 years as Psychological Support Lead for Dorothy House.