my journey with space2grieve has been one of compassion, connection and co-creation
I have a spring in my step on Monday mornings. This coincides with my weekly space2grieve volunteering session, as a Specialist Bereavement Support Worker, at the ETNA centre in Twickenham. Dare I say there’s a quiet joy in my heart too. It surprises people when I say sitting with the grief of bereaved people, often in very traumatic circumstances, can bring me joy. What’s that about?
The journey from the initial contact to current day has been one of compassion, connection and co-creation, values close to my heart. Huge compassion was shown to me when I lost my father just after completion of training. Messages of support poured in from the founders of the organisation, various members of the administration team, the trainer, my supervisor and my colleagues who had trained with me. I was given space to grieve (forgive the pun) and warmly welcomed back 8 months later. This was my first experience of quiet joy. I felt a sense of belonging which I had not always experienced in some other organisations.
volunteering has offered opportunities for both personal and professional development
For me, this sense of being part of something bigger than me, is further enhanced though the monthly group supervision. Colleagues come together, with the support of a supervisor, into a space of trust, respect and openness to share our collective experiences. This space offers opportunities for both personal and professional development. Deep learning arises for me as I am offered another perspective. What a joy.
Further learning has arrived through participation in the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) workshops which offer an opportunity to share ideas with fellow support workers, learn new skills and broaden one’s outlook. There is no single formulae to work to with bereavement support. It is more about creating a safe, confidential, non-judgemental and nurturing environment for an adult or child in their darkest hours. When positive feedback from a client’s arrives in my inbox via the administration team, I feel another quiet joy. I cannot negate a fellow human beings suffering, but may ease it by offering them a congruent space to grieve (I know, it’s infectious!).
in an ever-changing, fast-paced, complex world, i cherish being part of the space2grieve family, offering care to the community
What is particularly enriching about being a volunteer at space2grieve is that it has a holistic approach towards bereavement. There is an understanding that bereavement of an individual can cause a ripple effect to immediate and extended family, and even the wider community. This need is honoured by offering specialist bereavement support to adults, children and even families. Further support is facilitated through the Compassionate Cuppa and Compassionate Supper monthly meetings. Additionally, there are opportunities to get involved in raising the profile of the organisation through local fundraising events. The ever-increasing list of people on the waiting list is a sign of success and the trustees and founders are open to various initiatives to meet this need. I feel I am part of a progressive and inclusive organisation.
To sum it up, why I cherish being a part of the space2grieve family is that it offers care to the community rather than just an individual. A bigger vision is held in an ever-changing, fast-paced and complex world. There’s a quiet joy in knowing that too.
would you like to volunteer for space2grieve?
If you would like to make a difference to the lives of people in grief in Richmond borough, find out more about volunteering for space2grieve here. Alternatively please give us a call on 0751 937 6363.
