Compassionate Friends is a world-wide organisation that helps people who have lost children or siblings. While the Tamworth branch meets every month, this is the first time they will host a full day seminar with guest speakers.

Tamworth chapter leader, Karen Vial, said the day and the group can be a powerful tool in helping people to learn to live and look after yourself following the death of a loved one.

“When people come to the group they find that they make friends instantly, feel comfortable and develop instant bonds, as we all have something in common,” Mrs Vial said.

“It can really reinforce that they are not alone and we want them to take away that they will survive and will get through it, regardless of how far along they are in grieving.” 

Some members of the local chapter met last week to make decorated butterflies, which are the symbol of the Compassionate Friends, and will be used at the seminar.

“People write the name of their child, or loved one, on the butterfly and a little note and we hang them on a tree,” Mrs Vial said.

Guest speakers on the day will include acclaimed grief author, educator and trainer Doris Zagdanski, who will be doing a presentation titled The elephant in the room – Why no one will talk about our children, while Linda Campbell will hold a session called Living with loss.

There will also be a workshop on mindfulness and caring for yourself.

“We know that unfortunately there are a lot of people around the region that have been affected,” Mrs Vial said.

“People can just sit and listen if they like – just making that move is the first step.” 

The seminar will be held at the Frog and Toad from 9am until 5pm, on Saturday March 18. The cost is $20, and that includes all catering as well as lunch.

Bookings are essential. For more information or to book, contact Karen Vial on 0427922714.