Losing someone can affect people in many different ways, and everyone’s experience of grief is unique. You do not have to go through this alone.
The services below offer a range of support, whether you would like someone to talk to one-to-one, connect with others who may understand how you’re feeling, or simply find a space where you can take things at your own pace.
Whatever feels right for you is okay — and it’s okay if that changes over time.
Local Support Services
East Lancashire Hospice
Support for adults experiencing bereavement
East Lancashire Hospice offers a range of support for people aged 18 and over. You do not need to have had any previous connection with the hospice to access help.
How they can support you:
- One-to-one support
Gentle, confidential sessions with a trained professional, available face-to-face, by phone or online. These can take place somewhere you feel comfortable, and home visits may be arranged if needed. - Support for couples
Helping partners navigate grief together, in a safe and understanding space. - Small group sessions
A supportive environment to meet others who may be experiencing similar feelings. These sessions run over several weeks and are carefully facilitated. - Support for parents who have lost a child
A longer-term group offering a compassionate space for those bereaved of a child under 18. - Pre-bereavement counselling
Support for individuals and families facing loss due to a life-limiting illness. - Grief Café
An informal, welcoming space where you can sit with others, talk if you wish, or simply be.
Accessing support:
You can refer yourself, or ask a professional to refer you.
Call: 01254 965830
Email: info@eastlancshospice.org.uk
Blackburn with Darwen Carers Service – Life after Caring
Support when your caring role has ended
When caring ends, it can bring a mixture of emotions and changes to daily life. This small-group course offers time and space to reflect, adjust and begin to rebuild.
What to expect:
A six-week course led by a counsellor, gently exploring:
- Understanding and coping with grief
- Managing difficult feelings
- Looking after your wellbeing
- Finding purpose and meaning in daily life
- Practical matters such as finances and support
- Building confidence, self-care and hope for the future
The sessions are supportive and paced, with no pressure to share more than you feel comfortable with.
Who can attend:
People registered with the Blackburn with Darwen Carers Service. Courses run when there is enough interest.
Call: 01254 688440
Email : office@bwdcarers.org.uk
Home – Blackburn with Darwen Carers Service
Together After Loss (Lancashire Mind) – Baby Loss and Miscarriage Support
Specialist support for parents and families
Experiencing miscarriage or the loss of a baby can be deeply personal and often hard to talk about. This service has been developed with families to offer understanding, compassionate support.
What’s available:
- One-to-one therapy
A safe and private space to talk with a trained therapist - Peer support
Opportunities to connect with others who may have had similar experiences - Opportunities to shape the service
Families can help influence how support is developed over time
Support is delivered in local community spaces and is free to access.
How to get in touch:
Email: togetherafterloss@lancashiremind.org.uk
Website: www.lancashiremind.org.uk/project/together-after-loss/
Project Lead: katherinestybelski@lancashiremind.org.uk
Blackburn Rovers Community Trust – Dads FC
A supportive space for bereaved fathers
Dads FC offers a relaxed, informal way to connect with other fathers who have experienced loss.
What to expect:
- Weekly football sessions combined with time to talk and connect
- A welcoming, non-judgemental environment
- The opportunity to share experiences, or simply take part in the activity
Sometimes it can feel easier to connect side-by-side rather than face-to-face — this group recognises that.
Details:
- Weekly sessions, 8pm–9pm
- Blackburn Rovers Indoor Centre
- Free to attend
Contact:
01254 924890
healthandwellbeing@brfctrust.co.ukA supportive space for bereaved fathers
Dads FC offers a relaxed, informal way to connect with other fathers who have experienced loss.
What to expect:
- Weekly football sessions combined with time to talk and connect
- A welcoming, non-judgemental environment
- The opportunity to share experiences, or simply take part in the activity
Sometimes it can feel easier to connect side-by-side rather than face-to-face — this group recognises that.
Details:
- Weekly sessions, 8pm–9pm
- Blackburn Rovers Indoor Centre
- Free to attend
Contact:
01254 924890
healthandwellbeing@brfctrust.co.uk
Speak Their Name
Support after bereavement by suicide
Losing someone to suicide can feel especially complex and isolating. Speak Their Name offers a gentle, understanding space to be alongside others who may share similar experiences.
What the group offers:
- A safe, confidential and welcoming environment
- The opportunity to remember loved ones in meaningful ways
- Optional creative activities, including contributing to a memory quilt
- Space to talk — or simply to be present — with no pressure
Everyone is welcome at their own pace. There is no expectation to speak or participate in any particular way.
Getting involved:
Groups are arranged based on interest.
Contact:
Carole – 07716 017177