Bereavement cafe set up for those needing support

A new bereavement cafe for people affected by the loss of a loved one is to launch in Guildford this week.

Led by Royal Surrey Chaplain, Reverend Phil Hughes, it is the result of a partnership between Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust and Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice Care.

The initiative has been described by the trust as "recognising that the need for support doesn't end when someone eventually dies, and that bringing people together can make a huge difference to their mental health".

"This cafe is for patients' families and friends, as well as our staff and members of our broader community who may have been affected by bereavement," said Hughes.

The first bereavement cafe will take place on 3 September at New Hope Church in Bellfields, with further session taking place on the first Thursday of every month.

The trust added that there is no charge to attend, booking is not required and parking is free for two hours.

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