A SUPPORT group for people who have lost loved ones in East Yorkshire has won charitable status as it approaches its first anniversary.

Talking about Loss has had regular wellbeing social events in Driffield and Selby, with trained counsellors offering emotional support and company, and a property in Market Weighton is to become a community hub.

The group was set up by Jacqui Gunn following the death of her father, Christopher Munby, to allow people to talk freely about loss.

She thanked counsellors and members who had embraced technology to enjoy virtual wellbeing socials on Zoom during lockdown.

"It's been great ‘seeing' everybody and people have benefitted from being able to connect with others, albeit via technology instead of in person," she said.

"Over the last year, I have learnt that loss comes in many forms other than bereavement - loneliness, depression, dementia, anxiety, degenerative illness, stress and so the list goes on.

"The Talking about Loss Community Hub will be a friendly, sociable, comfortable space for people of all ages to come and be with like-minded people. It will focus on the needs of the community and our team of trained counsellors will be able to guide people who need help."

Plans for the building include a social area, a dementia friendly area with a 1950s theme, a children's play corner and a treatment/therapy room. Activities on offer will include crafts, mindfulness, skills sessions, guest speakers and workshops. The Wellbeing barn will host a variety of exercise programmes for all ages, including yoga, Pilates and boot camps.

The zoom virtual wellbeing sessions take place every Saturday at 4pm. Contact Mrs. Gunn on 07885 206473 for login details. For more information about Talking about Loss, please visit talkingaboutloss.co.uk