Following the loss of her mother in October 2022, Debra Fisher experienced profound grief that inspired her to create a support network for others facing similar challenges.
Recognising the importance of combining emotional and practical support, Debra established the Bereavement Befrienders to complement the bereavement support framework already in place at Mill Hill Shul. After 18 months of dedicated effort, with help from the US and her committed team, the group officially launches this week.
The Bereavement Befrienders aim to provide active listening and companionship to community members navigating grief, working alongside the Shul’s welfare team.
Debra explains: “The purpose of the group is to provide active listening support when someone might need it most. Working closely with the Shul’s welfare committee, who can offer lifts, shopping or other physical support, our dedicated group of trained volunteers is here for individuals who may also want to voice their thoughts or feelings in a confidential setting. We will be on hand to connect people to the support they might need, whether that is food or friendship, a shoulder or support network to lean on. Whether you need to talk, sit in silence, or simply feel less alone, we are here for you. You don’t have to face your grief on your own. Want to know more? We will be in touch, or you can reach us via: [email protected].
All our volunteers underwent specialist US training which was critical to launch and we were all very impressed by the professionalism by which it was facilitated and the manner in which the content was delivered.”
The responses to the announcement from the community has been really positive including:
“I’m really pleased to read this…… I wanted to set up exactly this. I’m so happy that it’s happening…..”
“What a wonderful initiative”
“If you need volunteers or help with running it, please let me know. I have had counselling training ….”
If you run a shul bereavement group and want to be part of the US bereavement support network, or would like to discuss setting up a group, please email Sharon Daniels, Head of Chesed and Volunteering on [email protected]
Mill Hill Shul Bereavement Befrienders – from left to right: Mike Petrook, Nathalie Sweiry, Cheryl
Freedman, Debra Fisher, Tanya Coppel, Suzy Zack, John Grant.