A new support network for people experiencing grief is due to launch at this year’s Kindness Festival.
The Frome Grief Network will be launching on Saturday 15th March, at Rook Lane Chapel, aiming to provide a beacon of hope and connection for those navigating loss.
The network was founded by Melanie Dalton and Neil Croom, who have been running the monthly Dying Matters group at The Good Heart for a number of years.
“Everyone experiences grief at some point in their life, yet it can be incredibly difficult to talk about, find the right support, or know how to support others who are grieving,” says Melanie.
Seeing a need for stronger community support for grief and loss, Melanie and Neil brought together local professionals from WHY, Frome Birth Talk, Dorothy House, Frome Medical Practice, the Health Connectors and more to explore what is already available and what else might be needed in Frome.
To mark the launch, the Frome Grief Network is hosting a full day of events at Rook Lane Chapel, welcoming anyone with an interest in or connection to grief and loss.
“This is for everyone,” says Melanie. “We know how hard it can be when you are grieving, but please know you will be warmly welcomed just as you are. You can listen to other people’s experiences, join a workshop, browse our book stall, or simply enjoy a cup of tea and cake in one of our comfy armchairs. Everything is free, including a light lunch. Our message is that grief walks amongst us in Frome, and it deserves attention and as much support as possible from those around us.”
The event is open to everyone. “You don’t have to be actively grieving yourself- perhaps you’d like to come in support of a friend or family member, or just feel more prepared in knowing what support is available,” says Melanie.
The day will include a series of separate events, all offering something slightly different.
Melanie said, “You are warmly welcomed to drop in from 1pm to 2pm, or to book for the other workshops and events on the day.”
Melanie and Neil would also like to thank their many supporters for their part to play in the launch, including Rook Lane Chapel, Frome Town Council, Frome Birth Talk, The Good Heart, Dorothy House and well-loved local musicians, Sinnober.
This event is part of the fourth annual Frome Kindness Festival running from Saturday 15th March to Saturday 22nd March.
Other grief-related events during the week include Grief Tending Frome on Wednesday 19th March, and Frome’s first Grief Disco on Friday 21st March.
Full listings and booking details are available at www.thegoodheart.uk. You can contact the Frome Grief Network at fromegriefnetwork@gmail.com
Pictured: Members of the Frome Grief Network (left to right):
Reverend Liz Dudley- Christchurch
Melina Robinson- Frome Birth Talk
Louise Barnes- Clarkson’s independent funeral directors
Neil Croom- Co-founder, Frome Grief Network
Kaz Woodbury- Frome Medical Practice
Lis Darby- We Hear You
Melanie Dalton- Co-founder, Frome Grief Network
Molly Whittock- We Hear You
