Every Life Matters offers monthly peer support groups across Cumbria for adults who have been bereaved by suicide. These groups provide a safe, confidential, and welcoming space to share experiences, gain support, and connect with others who understand what you are going through.
What to expect:
- Meetings are held in informal, private venues such as community centres, church halls, or GP practices.
- Each session is facilitated by volunteers who have personal experience of suicide bereavement, ensuring understanding and empathy.
- Groups are split into two halves: introductions and sharing in the first part, followed by informal conversation over tea and cake in the second.
- There is no obligation to talk or share; you can simply be present among others who understand.
- Support is available for practical issues, coping strategies, and accessing further resources.
Benefits of attending:
- Connect with others who have experienced similar loss.
- Find understanding, acceptance, and hope for the future.
- Share and learn coping techniques and ways to remember loved ones.
- Access information about local and national support services.
Locations & Times: Groups run monthly in Penrith, Carlisle, Kendal, Barrow, Maryport, and Whitehaven. Meeting locations are private; please contact us to join and receive details.
Who can attend? Anyone aged 18 or over who has been bereaved by suicide, regardless of when the bereavement occurred or your relationship to the person lost. You may bring a trusted friend or family member to your first meeting(s).
Cost: All support groups are free to attend.
How to join: Please contact our Support Group Co-ordinator, Paul, on 07588 016 166 or email support@every-life-matters.org.uk before attending. This first contact is also an opportunity to ask questions and discuss your needs.
Feedback & improvement: We regularly seek anonymous feedback to ensure our groups are supportive and effective.