December

Held in December, National Grief Awareness Week aims to raise awareness of grief, and to help to normalise conversations around it.

Grief is something we all face at some point, but it can feel lonely and overwhelming. Grief affects people in different ways, and many people don’t know where to turn for help or feel they must cope alone.

This week encourages open conversations about loss. Talking about grief helps break the stigma and makes it easier for people to seek support.

In 2024, QMU became the first university in Scotland to achieve the Bereavement Charter Mark.

This significant milestone is part of our University Hospice Partnership and reflects our commitment to supporting bereaved individuals within our community. The Bereavement Charter for Children and Adults, launched in April 2020, aims to create bereavement-aware workplaces.

By earning this Charter Mark, QMU is recognised for its commitment to fostering a supportive and understanding culture around grief and loss. A dedicated Bereavement Charter Working Group continues to lead on action planning and initiatives to enhance our workplace culture around bereavement. Their work ensures that our approach remains thoughtful, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of our people.