Grief doesn’t follow a timeline, especially for children and young people. It changes as they grow, often resurfacing in new and unexpected ways. At Mosaic, we understand that support shouldn’t end when counselling sessions do.

That’s why our Bereavement Cafés are becoming such an important part of how we support young people across Dorset, offering a safe, creative space where they can remember, connect and feel understood.

A Safe and Creative Space to Remember and Connect

Our Bereavement Cafés provide a gentle, welcoming environment where children and young people can come together to explore their feelings around loss.

These sessions are designed to be informal and flexible. There’s no pressure to talk – young people can share, listen or simply take part in activities at their own pace.

Each café offers:

• A warm, supportive space to connect with others who understand
• Gentle guidance from a Mosaic counsellor and trained volunteers
• Creative activities that encourage expression and reflection
• An environment where loss can be acknowledged openly and sensitively

Through conversation and creativity, children are given the opportunity to process their grief in a way that feels right for them.

A Growing Initiative in Dorset Schools

We are proud to now be delivering regular Bereavement Cafés in a growing number of schools across Dorset.

These cafés are open to any child or young person who has experienced the death of someone close, whether or not they have previously received one-to-one support from Mosaic.

By bringing these sessions directly into schools:

• Support becomes more accessible
• Stigma around grief is reduced
• Children can access help in a familiar, safe environment

Importantly, these cafés are offered at no cost to schools, with all materials and facilitation provided by Mosaic’s experienced team.

Introducing Grief Ambassadors 

Alongside our cafés, we are launching a powerful new initiative – Grief Ambassadors.

These are students who volunteer to support their peers, helping to create a compassionate and understanding school culture around grief.

Grief Ambassadors:

• Offer kindness, empathy and a listening ear
• Help other students feel less alone
• Encourage peers to access support when needed
• Play a key role in breaking down stigma

Meet Lucas and Siobhan 

At Emmanuel Middle School in Verwood, two inspiring young people are leading the way.

Lucas and Siobhan, pictured with Chloe, our new Bereavement Café Coordinator, have embraced their roles as Grief Ambassadors.

Mosaic’s Senior Counsellor, Cheryl, shared:

“We were truly impressed with Lucas and Siobhan. Their warmth, confidence and maturity were remarkable. They are amazing young people and wonderful role models – their support made a real difference.”

Thank you both so much!

Their impact highlights just how powerful peer-to-peer support can be. Sometimes, having someone your own age who understands, even without words, can make all the difference.

Why Bereavement Cafés Matter

Grief can feel incredibly isolating for young people. Bereavement Cafés help to gently change that.

They create a nurturing space where children can:

• Feel less alone in their grief
• Build connections with others who understand
• Express emotions through creative and meaningful activities
• Talk about their loved ones in a safe, supportive setting

By combining professional guidance with peer connection, these cafés offer a unique and valuable form of ongoing support.

Help Us Continue This Vital Work

Our Bereavement Cafés are completely free of charge, made possible thanks to the generosity of our supporters.

To continue reaching more children across Dorset, we rely on funding and donations. Every contribution helps us:

• Deliver more cafés in schools
• Provide materials for creative activities
• Train volunteers and support Grief Ambassadors
• Reach more young people who need support

Your support can help ensure no child has to navigate grief alone.

Find Out More or Get Involved

Learn more about Bereavement Cafés and if you’re interested in setting up a Bereavement Café at your school, please email info@mosaicfamilysupport.org.

Together, we can create safe spaces where children feel seen, supported and able to remember those they love.