The Saturday Club is an informal, safe and welcoming space that is open to bereaved adults. Facilitated by trained bereavement and counselling volunteers, the group meets once a month to talk, listen and gain support from each other.
John Taylor’s Well-Being Team Leader Surjit Heer said: “Everyone’s experiences of grief are individual to them and may affect them in different ways at different times. It’s important that people know they don’t have to go through that alone and there are support services available to them.
“We know that, for some people, talking to others in a group environment can really help. We are very proud to be able to offer such a valuable service to bereaved adults and to see that the Saturday Club continues to support so many people every month.
“We’d also like to say a big thank you to our wonderful well-being volunteers Sandra, Jo and James for their ongoing support, hard work and friendship.”
All information shared within the group is strictly confidential. However, to mark the two-year anniversary meeting, several group members have kindly shared their experiences with us:
Ashok Kumar: “The Saturday Club gave me confidence. After my wife passed away I was stuck in the house and I didn’t feel like going out and meeting anyone. When I first joined the Saturday Club, I saw I wasn’t the only one. Talking and listening to everyone gave me a boost. They make me feel welcome and I will keep going there.”
Peter Willock: “I feel that the meeting helps me to recharge my emotional batteries and means I can get through the month ahead. I’ve realised that it’s OK to feel angry or sad. We all feel different emotions at different times and we’re there to tell each other that’s normal and say, ‘I’ve been there and got through it and you will too.’ It’s very reassuring.”
Tina O’Reilly said: “I lost my husband seven months ago. The first time I went to the group I sat in the car park for a long time and I just didn’t know if I could face going in. I’m so glad that I did as the group has saved me. I feel that the people I’ve met are like an extended family and I can say anything in front of them as they get how I feel. It’s been tremendously helpful and I look forward to it every month.”
To find out more about support offered by the Well-Being Team please email enquiries@johntaylorhospice.org.uk or call 0121 465 2000.
Details about the services provided by John Taylor Hospice are also available at www.johntaylorhospice.org.uk/care-and-support/