Leeds comes together to ‘spread the warmth’ for National Grief Awareness Week

Key civic buildings and landmarks across Leeds will be glowing orange tomorrow as the city helps to ‘spread the warmth’ for National Grief Awareness Week.

From 6pm on Wednesday 8 December buildings including Leeds Civic Hall, Leeds Town Hall, Leeds City Museum and Leeds Beckett University’s Woodhouse Campus will join landmarks across the UK in being lit up for the evening in recognition of bereaved people across the country.

This year’s ‘Spread the Warmth’ campaign, led by the Good Grief Trust, is about encouraging individuals and communities to look out for each other in simple acts like having a cup of tea with a neighbour or going for a walk with a friend in need.

The campaign also highlights organisations and charities locally that provide support and help for people, through every stage of bereavement. Further details and advice can be found on the Dying Matters Leeds website. 

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council's executive member for health, wellbeing and adults, said:

“Leeds City Council is delighted to support National Grief Awareness Week again this year. This campaign helps bereaved people find the support they need nationally and locally, provides advice for those supporting their grieving friends and family and helps smaller support organisations raise their profile and reach those in need in the community. Most of all it shows people who are going through loss and bereavement that they are not alone.

“The theme of this year’s campaign -  ‘spread the warmth’-  is about reaching out and connecting everyone in our community. It’s a message that is especially important after eighteen months of Covid-19. And as we head into the winter months it’s a reminder to look after each other, and where to find help for anyone who needs it.”

For more information on National Grief Awareness Week, visit the website at https://www.thegoodgrieftrust.org/ngaw/

Notes to editors:

Leeds is recognised for it’s partnership work on death, dying and bereavement through the Dying Matters programme. To find out more visit http://dyingmattersleeds.org/members/