Our 2025 Bereaved Sibling Professionals Network Event
Our Bereavement Professionals Event at London Zoo!
In October, we held our Bereaved Siblings Professionals Network national in-person event at London Zoo.
The day brought together 20 bereavement professionals from across the country for a day of collaboration, reflection, and shared learning. Everyone came together with a shared focus on improving how bereaved siblings are supported.
We were delighted to welcome attendees from hospices, hospitals, charities, and schools. The day focused on three key aims: Networking, Building Resilience, and Developing Skills - creating a balance between professional growth, mutual support, and practical learning.
The morning began with a chance to have a coffee and a conversation, giving attendees the chance to connect with colleagues from a wide range of settings.
The group included counsellors, teachers, family support workers, and bereavement service leads - each bringing unique perspectives and experiences. Many said how valuable it was to step away from their daily routines and spend time with others who truly understand the challenges and rewards of supporting bereaved siblings.
““It has given me ideas and a toolkit to take back to work. It’s also great to talk to others who attended and to hear what other hospices are doing.””
Our first workshop was led by Paul Edworthy from Edworthy Coaching, who explored resilience and self-awareness - key themes for those who regularly support others through grief. Through reflective exercises and group discussions, Paul encouraged our group to think about their own wellbeing and how their perspectives shape the way they support others. His approach was both insightful and grounded, offering practical tools to strengthen personal resilience and sustain themselves in emotionally demanding work.
In the afternoon, Paul returned to lead a hands-on session focused on expanding our toolkit of support ideas. This interactive workshop encouraged creativity and collaboration, with participants sharing tried-and-tested approaches while Paul introduced new activities and techniques. The result was an energising exchange of ideas that left everyone feeling inspired and equipped with fresh strategies to take back to their organisations.
“Thought provoking and excellent networking - a fabulous day. The workshops were really useful, and will help both professionally and personally.”
We were also joined by Ben Jackson from Bluecoat Academy in Nottingham, who delivered a powerful presentation on the school’s grief awareness curriculum.
Ben shared how Bluecoat Academy has woven grief education into their PSHE lessons - helping students understand and express grief in healthy ways, while engaging parents along the journey.
“I really enjoyed the workshops, they gave me ideas to adapt my current work and provide for children and young people. It’s also nice to be recognised for the work that we do.”
He spoke candidly about the school’s process, its successes and challenges, and offered practical guidance for others hoping to embed bereavement awareness in educational settings. His talk sparked thoughtful discussion about how schools and services can work together to build more compassionate, grief-informed communities.
Later in the day, professionals had the chance to continue their conversations while exploring the zoo - a light-hearted and well-received opportunity to blend reflection with a bit of fun.
Throughout the day, there was a strong sense of shared purpose and mutual respect. Attendees left feeling connected, re-energised, and reminded of the importance of taking time to reflect and learn together.
We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who attended for their openness and engagement, to Edworthy Coaching and Ben Jackson for leading the workshops, and to Kier Group for supporting the event through a corporate volunteer.
It was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when professionals come together with empathy, openness, and a shared commitment to making a difference.
“I have met some brilliant professionals and shared some great ideas and resources - and I saw the giraffes!”
To find out more information about our Bereaved Sibling Professionals Network, head to our website.
Or if you’d like to get involved with the Network, send us an email!
Thank you so much for all of your continued support.