HUGG
A Beneficiary of The Care Trust
About HUGG
Healing Untold Grief Groups (HUGG) is a peer support organisation dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential environment for individuals bereaved by suicide. Through a range of services, including peer support groups, telephone support, and suicide bereavement training, HUGG helps those affected by suicide share their experiences and gain mutual support. HUGG is committed to expanding its grief support services nationwide, aiming to provide continuous support in every county in Ireland.
Impact of Our Supporters Donations In A Lust For Life
The Care Trust has proudly supported A Lust For Life in its mission to enhance mental health awareness and resilience among young people. Last year, The Care Trust provided a grant of €115,000 to further develop ALFL's Schools Programme, building on the foundations laid by a previous grant of €80,000 towards ALFL’s meaningful work.
Peer Support Group Programme
HUGG's peer support groups, led by trained volunteers with lived experience, meet fortnightly and are free of charge. These groups provide a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and find solace in the company of others who understand their grief. With The Care Trust’s support, HUGG has been able to: Expand Reach: Increase attendance at peer-group meetings across Ireland. Enhance Accessibility: Improve access to information and telephone support for those bereaved by suicide. National Suicide Bereavement Remembrance Evening: Support HUGG’s annual remembrance event, offering a vital space for shared understanding and healing. Recent research indicates that as many as 135 people can be affected by a single death by suicide, with 15 to 30 people being severely affected. With suicide rates in Ireland continuing to be a significant concern, the demand for HUGG’s support services is more crucial than ever.
Future Plans
HUGG has identified a significant gap in suicide bereavement support for young people in Ireland. The National Suicide Bereavement Survey, conducted by HUGG and the National Suicide Research Foundation, highlighted the unique challenges faced by young adults, including poor mental well-being, pronounced feelings of guilt, and perceived stigma. Young Adults Suicide Bereavement Training Programme In 2024, HUGG will launch a new training programme specifically for young adults who have been bereaved by suicide. The project will: – Train Volunteer Facilitators: Train 8-10 young adults from across Ireland to become HUGG Group Volunteer Facilitators. – Bespoke Training Programme: Conduct a three-day residential training programme, covering advertising, training materials, travel, accommodation, meals, and clinical support. – Expert-Led Sessions: Include sessions led by HUGG staff, an external bereavement consultant, and a young adult psychotherapist. By targeting young adults through segmented marketing, HUGG aims to ensure that this demographic receives the support they need. The Care Trust’s support has been instrumental in enabling HUGG to provide life-saving support to those bereaved by suicide. By funding these essential initiatives, we help ensure that individuals across Ireland have access to the support they need during their most challenging times.
Derek's Story:
“I lost my wife Mairead to suicide in June 2021. The grief and suffering this caused to me and my family is impossible to describe. I joined HUGG about 6 months after and it has been a great help. Nothing will ever bring her back but it has been a great help to sit and chat with people with similar experiences. It’s just a safe place where you can open up and say how you’re feeling without fear of judgement or criticism. Everyone there has lost a loved one and are suffering the same as me. It’s also very important to let others talk and listen to their experiences, which does actually help me too as it’s a shared empathy.”
For more information about HUGG
The Care Trust remains committed to supporting their mission of breaking down barriers and enabling individuals to live more independent and fulfilling lives. Together, we continue to make a positive impact on the lives of thousands, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Become a Supporter of Irish charities today
Will you support our work today?
Your monthly contribution will be used to help the people our Charity Partners support who are in need of physical, intellectual and mental health support.
Prize Draw
To say thank you for your regular support, we will enter you into our monthly draw with a chance to win a car and cash prizes.
View Latest Prize ResultsDonate now and help the people our Charity Partners support
Secure payment: All donations are secured by SSL encryption and protected by reCaptcha.