The Bereavement Help Point is a celebrated collaboration between residents, Ketton Parish Council, the Whitebread Trust and Community Foundation, and three hospices – LOROS, Dove Cottage and Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice.

It's an accessible, drop-in service aiming to provide bereaved people with a place where they can access information and support. It's also a place where they can talk to others and share their emotions in a safe environment.

“Shared understanding is immensely valuable in dealing with grief”

The first face-to-face sessions took place in Ketton in Rutland on 7th June.

The Lord Lieutenant of Rutland, Dr Sarah Furness, attended a small gathering of volunteers and staff to officially mark the opening.

“I am delighted to launch this new, local community service for Rutland residents,” said Dr Sarah Furness.

“I think it is particularly important that people are able to meet in person to provide support in bereavement. This service will be friendly, safe and accessible. It will be a chance to make friendships and meet others experiencing loss.

“Shared understanding is immensely valuable in dealing with grief. This service will be hugely beneficial.”

The service is run by a team of volunteers, and is the brainchild of Claire Henry MBE, an expert in palliative and end of life care and the driving force behind Dying Matters in Rutland.

Dr Furness, who is patron of Dying Matters in Rutland, added: “The bereavement service would be impossible without the volunteers and staff. A big thank you to all these essential people.”

“This will benefit so many bereaved people to access support”

Tina Parkinson, Volunteer Engagement Lead at Thorpe Hall Hospice, added: "I am very excited to be working with and supporting the Bereavement Help Point.

“I feel especially through these difficult times we have all been through, that this will benefit so many bereaved people to access support in the community."

Ketton is the first location to host the groups, however it's hoped that the project will reach more villages across Rutland later in the year.

Find out more information on Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice, the expert palliative care they provide and ways you can help to support them.