A new partnership has launched to provide support to members of the local community who are experiencing pre-bereavement grief.

Made up of a number of businesses which provide services to people in the community, the Compassionate Garden Group brings together home care company, Home Instead Ipswich, Felixstowe & Woodbridge, together with Grove Court care home, and St. Elizabeth Hospice.

The group meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month between 10am and 1pm at Grove Court's tranquil setting with restful views over the River Deben.

Free to attend, those joining the Group will have the opportunity to take part in light gardening activities as well as enjoying a cup of tea and that all-important opportunity to chat with trained helpers in bereavement.

The launch event last month was a huge success and established an encouraging example for the future of the group.

Commenting on the Compassionate Garden Group, head of community engagement at Home Instead Ipswich, Felixstowe & Woodbridge, Wendy Chard, says "We understand the challenges many people face when going through pre-bereavement. It's not just the individual with a life-limiting illness, it's those around them such as their family members, friends, and carers.

"That's why groups like this are so important. We want to extend a helping hand to those who may benefit from a network of support and understanding in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

"I would urge anyone who finds themselves in this position to come along."

The Compassionate Garden Group is sponsored by East Suffolk Council and Nocutts Garden Centres.

The sessions will be held at Grove Court Care Home, Beech Way, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 4BW. If you would like to book a place on the upcoming session, please call 01394 446500.

For more information on the work of St. Elizabeth Hospice, visit https://www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/ or https://www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/compassion/events/. For information on Grove Court, visit https://www.elizabethfinn.co.uk/care-homes/grove-court/. To learn about the Grief Hub visit https://www.livinggriefeastsuffolk.co.uk/woodbridge-local-support.

To find out more about the services Home Instead Ipswich, Felixstowe & Woodbridge offers to the local community, please call 01473 272301 or visit https://www.homeinstead.co.uk/ipswich/.