Bereavement Support Group – Diss– September 2026

Why attend our bereavement groups

At Rosedale Funeral Home, we understand that grief doesn’t end with the funeral. That’s why we’re proud to offer ongoing bereavement support for families and individuals learning to live with loss. Our dedicated bereavement support groups in Norfolk and Suffolk are open to anyone in the community, not just those who have arranged a funeral with us.

Grief can feel incredibly isolating. Even when surrounded by others, many bereaved people feel they are going through something no one else quite understands. At our bereavement support groups, that isolation begins to lift. You’re among people who “get it”—people who have also lost someone they love, and who are at various points on their own grief journeys.

• “I am a very anxious and nervous person, I did it and so can you. It has really helped me”

• “I was very doubtful about coming but am so glad I did. I would recommend it to anyone”

• “Beforehand you worry, once there you realise everyone is in the same boat and it helps so much to have company”

• “It was hard to go the first week, but once you take the first step you find it very helpful and it brought out things I had bottled up for years”

• “Safe space and very welcomed to group, no need to worry”

• “You will feel welcome, people are friendly and very supportive”

• “Don’t hesitate, come along”

• “Do it, don’t be shy or embarrassed because its very helpful and you meet very nice people and you help each other”

Who leads the groups and why should I attend?

The group in Diss is facilitated by Andrew Fairweather and Amanda Frost who have been trained to guide the conversation, offer gentle reassurance, and ensure everyone feels heard and included. There’s no pressure to talk if you don’t want to. Some people come and simply listen for the first few sessions—and that’s absolutely fine. Over time, many find the confidence to open up, to share memories, or to speak honestly about their feelings in a way they perhaps can’t with family or friends.

Each session is informal, with a warm cup of tea or coffee. It may sound simple, but that warmth and hospitality can mean the world to someone who’s feeling lost. There’s something about sitting and talking with others who understand, that helps people feel less alone in their grief.

What makes these groups special is that they’re rooted in the local community. Whether you join us in Wymondham, Diss, Beccles or Halesworth, you’ll be among people who live locally—neighbours, friends, and people you may already know. Strong friendships often form within the group, and some members even continue meeting socially outside the sessions.

Bereavement affects us all differently. There is no right or wrong way to grieve, and no set timeline for how long it takes. The Rosedale support groups are designed with this in mind. Whether your loss was recent, or many years ago, you are welcome to come along.

We also understand that asking for support can be difficult. It’s a brave step to attend a bereavement group, especially for the first time, But time and again, we hear from people who say it was the best thing they could have done for themselves. Being among others who truly understand, without having to explain or pretend, can be deeply healing.

What do people say about our bereavement support groups?

One attendee of the Wymondham bereavement support group recently shared, “I didn’t know what to expect, but from the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed and accepted. It’s made such a difference just knowing I’m not on my own.”

Another from Attleborough said, “It’s not just about talking about your grief—it’s about being around people who care, and who understand the ups and downs. I always leave feeling a little bit lighter.”

How do I find out more, or register to attend?

If you or someone you know would benefit from bereavement support, please don’t hesitate to contact us using the details above, or here. We can even arrange for either Andrew or Amanda to have a chat with you before the group starts to make sure you are as comfortable as you can be attending for the first time.

We are grateful that The Salvation Army, Diss have allowed us to use their building to hold our support groups.