We have received funding from the National Lottery Community Fund and the London Borough of Waltham Forest to run a range of grief support activities in the borough.
This includes a mixture of Grief Cafes, Understanding Grief talks and Grief Walks.
Our activities are open to those aged 18 and over and are FREE to attend.
Grief Cafes in Walthamstow and Leytonstone
Our Grief Cafes are an informal and supportive place where people can come together to share and discuss their experiences of grief and loss, and connect with others who understand.
We know that grief can, at times, feel isolating so attending a Grief Cafe and sharing experiences and feelings with others can help reduce feelings of loneliness.
Also, hearing diverse stories and perspectives on grief can help us make sense of our own loss and grief. We might learn new or different coping strategies and ways of navigating the grieving process.
At our Grief Cafes we sit in small groups so it’s easy to talk, or just listen, and each group has a ‘table host’ to ensure everyone is able to participate in the way they wish to.
It’s important to note that our Grief Cafes aren’t therapy or educational sessions. They’re simply places for people to gather, share, listen, and support each other.
Whatever your loss, and whether this is anticipated, recent or a long time ago, everyone is welcome.
“It was really useful to come to a space and talk about my feelings and hear other people’s experiences and stories. It can be scary but trust that this space will make you feel welcome and you are in the same position as everyone else. It’s definitely worth coming. I’m glad I did.” Grief Cafe participant.
Walthamstow Grief Cafes
Dates: Every third Saturday of the month (see below for dates)
Venue: East of Eden Cafe, 14 Hatherley Mews, Walthamstow, E17 4QP
Booking information: Places are limited so booking is required. See below for dates and times.
Leytonstone Grief Cafes
Dates: Every fourth Wednesday of the month (see below for dates)
Venue: Leytonstone Library, 6 Church Lane , E11 1HG
Booking information: Places are limited so booking is required. See below for dates and times.
Understanding Grief talks
We’re presenting our Understanding Grief talks in collaboration with Waltham Forest Mental Health and Wellness Team (NELFT NHS Foundation Trust).
The talks will provide information about grief and the grieving process to dispel some of the common myths and misconceptions that surround grief. We will also discuss the various ways that grief can affect us and explore coping strategies to look after ourselves and to support others.
The talk is suitable for those grieving and anyone who wants to increase their understanding of grief and how they can compassionately support others.
It will be an interactive session but there will be no expectation that you have to participate – you are very welcome to just come along and listen.
Date: Friday 16th May 2025, 2pm-3.30pm
Venue: Whipps Cross Hopsital, Whipps Cross Road, London, E11 1NR
Booking information: Booking is not required, you can turn up on the day, but if you are able to book that would be very helpful as it will help us with our planning. See below for dates and times.
Grief Walks
Finding space and time to reflect on and process feelings after a death can be difficult. Our new Grief Walks offer a gentle, supportive way to do just that.
Starting on Friday, 2nd May, 10.30am to 12.30pm, and running on the first Friday morning of each month, these walks are a chance to move, talk, or simply be in nature.
When we are grieving, there are so many benefits to walking:
- Exercising can boost wellbeing by lifting our mood and improving the quality of our sleep;
- Walking with others forms connections and helps us feel less alone;
- Being in nature can help us feel connected to the present.
Twice a year in May and September, we’ll add a creative, nature-inspired activity to our walks—offering a chance to express emotions in new and meaningful ways. These will be led by Walthamstow Wetlands team.
Whether you’re looking for quiet reflection or a space to share, and whether your grief is recent or a long time ago, you’re welcome to join us.
Dates: Starting Friday 2nd May 2025 and then every first Friday of the month (through to October), 10.30am to 12.30pm
Venue: Walthamstow Wetlands, 2 Forest Rd, London N17 9NH
Booking information: Places are limited so booking is required. See below for dates and times. boosiop
