Last year, we supported the launch of a much-needed support group in Chester for those who have experienced the loss of an adult child. We are pleased it has made life-changing impact to those who have accessed this group.
Organised peer support groups play an important role in reducing isolation from grief and help participants feel heard and understood. STAR (Share, Talk and Remember) is a peer support group established by a community who have experienced bereavement or significant loss. It is a safe, secure space where people can speak to, and learn from, those who have gone through something similar.
It became apparent that those who have lost an adult child suffer more significantly with poor mental health, often feeling worse over time, not better. They often become isolated from friends and even family. There was no much-needed support available aimed at this community so STARLAC (Share, Talk and Remember Loss of an Adult Child) was launched. Our £600 grant covered the necessary volunteer and administration costs to launch this for a marginalised group, whose biggest need is often to speak with someone who has gone through the same experience.
The formation of the group has been very significant in the lives of bereaved parents, with one saying “You have no idea what coming here means to me.” The group, led by a trained STAR volunteer, runs monthly in Storyhouse, however true friendships have been formed and participants meet between the organised sessions.
The support group has increased participants confidence and improved their mental health, as it creates a sense of belonging and teaches an understanding of how to navigate the thoughts and feelings of bereavement. One participant said they found the STARLAC sessions more helpful that prescribed counselling.
Iris from STAR commented “None of this would have been possible without The Chester Bluecoat Charity believing in us when STAR LAC was just a vision. Thanks to their support, that initial seed funding is now a reality and sustainable for the future.”
Following the establishment of this group, a general bereavement support group also runs from Storyhouse. If you would like to know further information about this, please visit STAR@Storyhouse
