The Chaplaincy team at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust is launching a new bereavement support group for members of the local community.
Starting on 7 August 2024, the Connections support group will meet on the first Wednesday of every month between 2-3:30pm in the restaurant at Airedale Hospital.
Connections is open to anyone who has experienced loss, no matter how recent, and wants to meet others who have gone through something similar.
The Trust’s Lead Chaplain, Liz Maitland, said:
“In Chaplaincy, we meet so many people who have been bereaved and are trying to navigate their way through this big change in their life.
“We found that a lot of people were keen to share their stories so we wanted to offer a safe and informal space where people could get together with others who are going through something similar, share their experiences and support each other.
“We hope that friendships are formed within the group that can help attendees find a way forward and feel supported.”
Attendees can purchase a hot drink in the hospital restaurant, connect with others, learn about local support available to them and meet members of the Chaplaincy team.
The Chaplaincy team would like the group to be shaped by its members and is open to suggestions about what they would like to see in future meetings, including any guest speakers or activities.
Connections is open to people of all faiths and none and there is no need to book or come to every meeting, just turn up on the day.
Support is available for people with accessibility needs or who may be anxious about joining a new group:
“We recognise that joining a new group can be daunting but we’re always happy to have a chat beforehand or meet people at the main entrance if they are nervous about finding their way through the hospital,” says Liz.
“We can also provide wheelchair support if arranged prior to the meeting.”
If you would like to get in touch or find out more, please contact Liz via email at Elizabeth.maitland@nhs.net or phone the Chaplaincy office on 01535 294088.
New drone will be used 'wherever it is needed' to stop fly tipping
Calendar of events announced at Burley-in-Wharfedale Community Trust AGM
Experience the magic of opera at charity gala in Ilkley
Your Local Experiences earns thousands for local businesses in first month
Four Ilkley businesses in finals of Leeds Oliver Awards 2026
Ilkley Wharfedale Rotary involved with eradicating Polio worldwide
International Women’s Day talk to celebrate ‘Brilliant Bradford Lasses’
Man charged with murder after weekend fatal assault
Airedale Hospital launch their Easter appeal
Ilkley planning to bid for UK Town of Culture 2028
Deadline extended for Ilkley Carnival creative competition
Passengers benefit from £7.8m accessibility upgrade at Menston station
Enhanced CCTV to increase safety at Ilkley station
Council shares update on Kex Gill realignment scheme ahead of June opening
Airedale Hospital marks milestone after over 100 people use cancer exercise treatment service
Council food waste collections likely to begin in September
Ilkley campaigners respond to Channel 4 sewage documentary-drama
Majority of pupils offered preferred secondary school places
Murder investigation launched following death of assault victim
PippaFest returns this May bank holiday Sunday
