Grief is an experience we all face, but it often feels isolating. Losing someone or something significant can leave us feeling untethered, overwhelmed, and misunderstood. National Grief Awareness Week, running from December 2nd to 8th, is a time to come together, acknowledge this universal experience, and ensure that everyone has access to the support they need. This 'Shine a Light' on grief campaign is more than just a week-long event. It’s a movement to create safe spaces, foster understanding, and let people know they’re never alone in their grief.
Reflecting on Last Year’s Campaign: Better Together
Last year’s theme, 'Better Together', was a beacon of hope. It reminded us that while grief is deeply personal, we don’t have to face it alone. Across the UK, communities came together to raise awareness and offer support.
One of the campaign's highlights was the participation of 98 grief cafés. These were welcoming spaces where people could share their stories, listen to others, and find comfort in knowing they weren’t alone. Grief can feel like an isolating journey, but these cafés proved the power of community.
Beyond the cafés, events and initiatives popped up nationwide. People shared their experiences on social media, attended workshops, and participated in local gatherings. The media helped too with features on Morning Live and Loose Women, plus articles in The Times and Platinum Magazine, to name but a few. The message was clear: when we come together, we can better navigate the complexities of loss.
The campaign’s impact was also visual. On the final day, landmarks across the UK lit up in orange—a symbol of hope, resilience, and togetherness. Cardiff Castle, the Liver Building in Liverpool, and Blackpool Tower were just a few of the iconic locations bathed in light.
Adding a deeply personal touch was the contribution of Charlie Mackesy, the beloved artist and author. Using his iconic the Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse characters, he created a stunning illustration accompanied by tender, meaningful words. His work beautifully captured the essence of the campaign: that no one must grieve alone.
This Year’s Theme: 'Shine a Light' On Grief
For 2023, the theme is 'Shine a Light'. It’s about bringing grief out of the shadows and highlighting the importance of accessible support. This year’s focus encourages us to shine a light on our own grief, support others, and advocate for better resources for everyone. So, 'Shine a Light' on people, places and projects.
Grief doesn’t come with a guidebook, and the support available can feel like a postcode lottery. Some communities have wonderful resources, while others are left struggling to find help. This disparity needs to change because everyone deserves a compassionate hand to hold during their toughest times.
Ways to Get Involved
There are so many ways to participate in National Grief Awareness Week and make a difference in your community. Here are a few ideas:
• Attend or host a grief café. These spaces offer an opportunity to share, listen, and connect.
• Organise a local event to raise awareness about grief and the support available.
• Share your story on social media using the hashtag #NationalGriefAwarenessWeek.
• Volunteer with grief support organizations in your area.
• Encourage conversations about grief with friends, family, or colleagues.
There is a full list of events on The Good Grief Trust website, including walks, webinars and remembrance services. And don’t forget to mark the final day by visiting one of the illuminated landmarks or lighting a candle in your own home.
Why This Campaign Matters to Me
This campaign holds a special place in my heart. Losing my mother to cancer was one of the hardest experiences of my life. Grief hit me like a tidal wave—filling me with hopelessness, sadness, and a profound sense of abandonment.
At the time, I had a young family to care for, and getting out of bed each day felt like an impossible task. My children gave me a reason to keep going, but the pain was always there.
Then, one day, my three-year-old son changed everything. He came in from the garden with a handful of daisies and said, “Mama, I picked you these, so you won’t be sad anymore.” His simple, heartfelt gesture melted my heart. For the first time in a long while, I saw beauty in the world. Those delicate white petals with pale pink tones underneath and short but sturdy green stems were a reminder that life still held moments of joy.
That moment marked the beginning of my healing journey. I reconnected with nature, and in doing so, I found my way back to art.
How Art Became My Therapy
Through art, I discovered a powerful way to process my grief. When I’m painting or creating, I enter a mindful state where the world feels calm and hopeful. My art celebrates the beauty of life, inspired by the simple joys that helped me heal.
From this journey, Minnie La-La-Designs was born. My work is joyful and vibrant—a tribute to my mother’s memory and the life she inspired me to cherish. I love to refer to my art as ‘Happy Art’, a fitting tribute to an amazing lady.
But it’s not just about my own healing. I now share the therapeutic power of art with others.
Workshops to Support Healing
I offer workshops that help people reconnect with nature, creativity, and themselves.
These sessions aren’t about producing “perfect” art—they’re about finding peace in the creative process.
• Corporate workshops focus on employee well-being, providing a space to unwind and recharge.
• Local painting parties and studio sessions bring people together to explore their creativity in a supportive environment.
• My educational Art Workshops provide children the opportunity to explore their creativity, connect with nature and just ‘be’ in a world that can be confusing and difficult for them to navigate.
• Health and Wellbeing Workshops can be fun, mindful, empowering and, above all else, healing.
• Drink and Draw at The Angel Inn, Grosmont is on the first Thursday of every month.
I’ll be there. Just bring a sketch pad and pencil, buy a drink and have a chat with me. In other words, lets talk and create together.
No prior artistic experience is needed. The goal is simply to embrace the joy of creating and let it heal your mind and soul.
You Are Not Alone - 'Shine A Light' on Grief
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my grief, it’s that we don’t have to face it alone. My son’s small act of kindness showed me that even in the darkest times, there’s love and support to be found. National Grief Awareness Week is a reminder of that truth. Whether you’re grieving yourself or supporting someone who is, this campaign offers hope, connection, and understanding.
If you’re struggling, I encourage you to reach out—whether that’s joining one of my workshops, visiting a grief café, or connecting with a local support group. Everyone deserves a safe, caring space to process their loss. Let’s come together this National Grief Awareness Week to 'Shine a Light' on grief, break the silence, and ensure no one feels alone in their journey.
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