Bereavement Support

You are not alone. We’re here to support you.

Losing someone you care about is one of life’s most challenging and emotional experiences. Grief is deeply personal, and everyone navigates it in their own way. At Smiths Funeral Directors, we understand that the journey through bereavement often begins after the funeral has concluded, as you adjust to a life changed by loss.

We believe our care for you extends far beyond the funeral service. That’s why we’re here to offer compassionate support.

Smiths Funeral Directors Bereavement Cafe

 

Bereavement Cafe: A Place of Comfort and Connection

Grief can be a challenging and isolating experience, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our Bereavement Cafe is a free, monthly support group designed to provide a compassionate space for those navigating the loss of a loved one.

In a warm and informal setting, our cafe offers an opportunity to connect with others who understand your journey, gain valuable insights, and find solace in the company of a supportive community.


How the Cafe Can Help

1. Creating Connections
Grief can leave people feeling disconnected or misunderstood. The cafe provides a space to meet others who have experienced similar losses. By sharing stories and experiences, you can form meaningful relationships and feel less alone.

2. Providing a Safe Space
Our café is a relaxed, judgment-free environment where you’re welcome to express your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. Whether you want to talk about your loved one, listen to others, or simply be present, you’ll find understanding and acceptance.

3. Offering Practical Guidance
Each session includes a brief talk led by grief specialist Deb Bridges of Prodigal Connect or guest speakers. These talks provide practical tools and strategies to help you manage the emotions, challenges, and changes that come with bereavement.

4. Encouraging Emotional Healing
Being surrounded by others who empathize with your experience can promote emotional healing. Sharing your grief in a supportive group can help you process emotions, gain new perspectives, and discover hope for the future.


Details About the Cafe

  • Date: Every 1st Thursday of the month
  • Time: 10:30 AM – 12:00 Noon
  • Location: Smiths Funeral Directors, ‘The Old Court House’

Who Can Attend?

The café is open to anyone who has experienced a loss, whether it happened recently or some time ago. There’s no need to book—just drop in whenever you feel ready to join us.

For more information, please contact us directly.

Let us walk with you on your journey toward healing and understanding.

Grief Aware Course

 
 
 

In partnership with Prodigal Connect, we are proud to offer Grief Aware™, a free five-session bereavement support course designed and facilitated by Sid and Deb Bridges. This thoughtfully created course provides participants with a deeper understanding of grief, how it manifests, and tools to navigate the grieving process.

What the Grief Aware Course Offers

  • Insight into Grief: Gain a deeper understanding of what grief is, how it affects us, and the ways it can be expressed.
  • Supportive Environment: Each session is relaxed and informal, offering a safe space to share experiences and connect with others navigating similar emotions.
  • Shared Learning: Participants are encouraged to learn from each other, fostering a sense of community and mutual support.

Course Details

  • Duration: Five consecutive weeks
  • Session Length: 1.5 hours per session
  • Location: Smiths Funeral Directors, ‘The Old Court House’
  • Facilitators: Sid and Deb Bridges of Prodigal Connect

Who Can Attend?

This course is open to anyone experiencing grief, whether your loss is recent or in the past.


For more information about the Grief Aware™ course or to reserve a place, please visit, Grief Aware Course — Prodigal Connect or contact us directly.

 

Have questions? Get in touch with our team

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Testimonials

As a church organist, I have had a lot of dealings with funeral directors. I can honestly say that Smiths are the best I have encountered - when it came to my mum's funeral, they were absolutely terrific. Everything was done with not only tact and sensitivity, but also perfect efficiency. I would add that their charges are very reasonable. Heartfelt gratitude to them.

David Pattrick

On behalf of my family I just want to say a big thankyou to Smiths Funeral Directors. They made a very difficult task a lot easier. Arrangements were easy and we felt very comforted. We were kept informed every step of the way.

The day itself was handled professionally and personally. I could not give a higher recommendation.

A friendly well organised local family business that definitely know their business. Thank you to all your staff.

Simon Husbands

At every stage of what was a real difficult time, Ian, Ruth and their team gave us magnificent advice and support. Our family could not have wished for better service. Thank you.

Bruce Ferguson
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