Connect with others dealing with loss at The Health Meadow Bio Diversity project
We know that dealing with the loss of someone close confronts us with an emotional challenge like no other and there’s no shortage of advice and guidance on how we can best look after ourselves.
For many, it’s a combination of support which really helps. Being with others who truly understand the emotions being experienced, engaging in meaningful activity, and enjoying being outside connecting with the natural world.
We know that being active with others outdoors reduces stress levels, can help to recharge energies and give space and time for important reflection and healing.
In partnership with Cardiff & Vale Health Charity and Down to Earth, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board is hosting a taster session for anyone dealing with loss and bereavement to come and join others who are facing similar challenges and get involved in the Health Meadow development.
The Health Meadow is a wonderful biodiversity project located at the top end of the University Hospital Llandough site. The project is engaging with the hospital and local communities to enhance and nurture this great outdoor space as a setting in which people can come for activity, reflection and serenity for generations to come.
The taster session will take place on Monday, 1st August from 10.30am to 2.30pm. You don’t need any special skills, just your enthusiasm and company.
The session will run come rain or shine, so we do recommend wearing appropriate clothing for the weather. Boots, gloves and waterproofs will all be provided if needed.
The Health Board has worked with a number of stakeholders and Third Sector partners with a view to developing a bereavement support service in Mental Health Services for Older People (MHSOP).
Work has been carried out by Mark Jones, a Bereavement Support Development Worker, to reach out to people who are known to the service in their roles as carers and were bereaved between 2020 and 2021.
Social activity-based sessions have been set up in the form of choir groups, outdoor activities at University Hospital Llandough’s Our Health Meadow, walking groups and more. how these initiatives evolve will be at the direction of participants.
At this stage, we are at the beginning of what you might call co-discovering which will play a valuable part in co-producing a service.