Compassion Summer 2021

Summer 2021 - Compassion | www.tcf.org.uk 7 But we also understand that given all we have been through, all we have witnessed over the last year and all we have felt, there will be a mixture of feelings about getting back to in-person meetings. That is to be expected and is normal; it is equally normal for some people to feel hesitant about returning immediately. We have made it clear to the volunteers that it is their decision whether or not to restart their meetings on a face-to-face basis. It will be based on the circumstances of each group, the requirements of the venue, as well as the circumstances and vulnerabilities of support group members. We have assured our volunteers that they are under no pressure to return to in-person groups until they feel the time is right. Some facilitators may not feel confident to begin meeting in person just yet; and some vulnerable group members may not feel that they wish to return to in-person meetings for the time being. Some TCF groups will therefore return to in-person meetings later this month – others will be leaving it longer to July or beyond. Some groups may decide to try a hybrid approach with some people meeting in person and some continuing to join in via Zoom. Whatever choice is made we hope that you will understand the particular feelings and concerns that your own volunteers might have and will work with them to make the transition back to face-to-face as easy as possible. All groups even when meeting face to face will be subject to different considerations that did not arise during the pre-pandemic days. In addition to thinking about the size of the venue and the numbers that can safely be accommodated, volunteers will have to think about ventilation, hand sanitizers and how drinks and snacks can safely be served. Some attendees will want to continue wearing masks and some will be comfortable without. Volunteers themselves may have concerns about the vulnerabilities of some attendees and may ask others to wear masks. There will be no hard and fast rules save to say that the initial meetings will be testing the waters for how they will continue to develop for the rest of 2021. Although the meetings and the benefits they offer are tried and tested, going back some 50 years, those going forward are in unchartered waters. Each group will have to see what works best for them and adapt as necessary as we move forward. I have no doubt that all of us who attend a face-to-face group will understand the various challenges facing our volunteers and will work with them to ensure that the meetings run as smoothly as possible. And if you are able to attend a face to face group, I do hope that it will be a fulfilling experience. And so, as we move into this new phase I wish all TCF volunteers and our staff the very best of luck going forward and to all bereaved parents and siblings as always, I send you my very best wishes. Keep safe and well. Andrew Miller, Fabian’s Dad