Dealing With Loss Event In East Yorkshire Proves Successful

A new support group for people dealing with loss attracted around 100 people to its launch event in Bishop Wilton.

Talking about Loss was set up by East Yorkshire farmer’s daughter, Jacqui Gunn following the death of her father, Christopher Munby, as a peer-led support group.

Mrs Gunn, who lives in Shiptonthorpe, is delighted with the success of the first event: “When I set up Talking about Loss, I envisaged a warm and welcoming group of like-minded people meeting up to talk freely about loss and enjoying activities together. The launch meet-up was everything I had hoped for, and more.

“Today’s event was all about giving people a chance to meet up and to tell us what kinds of activities they would like to take part in. Thanks to contemporary artist, Mark Ibson; Black Beard Fieldcraft School; Ey Up Vintage; Free Spirit Flowers; JB Dressmakers, Keeping it Crafty and Jane Barham Reiki, people were able to chat about and sample some of the activities that will be available to the group going forward.

Dealing With Loss Event Had A Lovely Atmosphere

“Many of the people who came commented on what a lovely atmosphere there was, so that’s really encouraging for future events. I also had lots of messages from people who couldn’t make it. They have asked to be kept in touch with our plans, so hopefully Talking about Loss will go from strength to strength.”

Louiza Emmison travelled from Driffield for the meetup and was delighted that she had made the trip.

Commenting on the event she said;

“Congratulations to Jacqui for setting this up. It’s a fantastic idea. I lost my dad 24 years ago and still miss him desperately. It’s great to be able to talk to people who can understand your grief. I’m really looking forward to attending more events.”

Mrs Gunn added;

“Whether you have lost a parent, sibling, child, partner or a pet, having someone to talk to who knows what you’re going through is a great comfort. I hope that Talking about Loss can help to ease the isolation and fear surrounding death. Also, I hope to provide a safe environment for people to share their experiences. It’s important to point out that we’re not counsellors, but we have all experienced loss,”

The next meet up takes place between 2pm and 4pm on Saturday, June 22. It will be held in Shiptonthorpe and is a Marie Curie giant tea party.