SIBBS Newsletter Summer 2022

SIBBS Newsletter, Summer 2022 | www.tcf.org.uk 14 "I spent last weekend with The Compassionate Friends for a bereaved siblings' retreat...It lasted 24 hours but the deep bonds formed within that short space of time meant it felt like I'd been there weeks. I can't wait for the next one". "Thank you an incredible weekend in Birmingham, I feel more connected to my sister than I have in a long time". "I didn’t know what to expect as this was my first retreat. I’m so moved by the amount of love and compassion. After nearly 6 years I finally feel like I’m not alone”. “I have gained so much from my time here. I think the structured groups worked really well and I loved the walk and candle decorating”. “Thank you to TCF and the amazing volunteers for organising this fantastic event. This has given me the space to grieve openly and not feeling guilty to cry and think about looking after myself. It has been such a valuable experience having this space with other siblings who ‘get it’ – the shared experience. Such a good mixture of group work, conversations and creative activities and also informal chats and sharing opportunities. It has been emotional but well needed. "Taking an opportunity to address grief within our busy lives is so hard and this has allowed me to focus on me and my brother for the first time". “Amazing weekend...exactly what I needed” On the weekend of 7-8 May we ran our first overnight retreat for 3 years at Woodbrooke in Birmingham for adult bereaved siblings. It was wonderful to be able to meet in person again. Our brilliant volunteers - Emma, Rachael, Hayley and Karen - all bereaved siblings themselves offered a range of activities and ways to connect - writing and talking, walking and crafting and much more. The feedback from the retreat has been amazing....here’s a few snippets...