Coping with Death in the Workplace

Whilst the following information covers loss relating to bereavement, it is important to remember that any kind of change or loss leads to an experience of grief. Grief is a normal and natural reaction to such changes, and we should recognise that everyone will be responding to their circumstances with a wide range of emotions, reactions and behaviours, often at different times to one another. 

It can be reassuring for people to know that what they are experiencing is natural, and that they are part of a workplace where they are able to express their experiences openly without fear of being judged, shamed or labelled as ‘weak’. As the Good Life, Good Death, Good Grief network explains: “We never know when someone close to us might die. And because individuals don't know, organisations don't know when a death may affect one of their staff. It is best to be prepared.” 

Therefore, we hope that the information and links to some fantastic existing resources provided here can support you to give the best response possible with regards to death and grief, for the benefit of everyone in your workplace.