As National Grief Awareness Week approaches (1st–7th December), we’re reminded that grief touches us all at some point. Whether from the loss of a loved one, a significant life change, or an unexpected crisis, grief finds its way into our daily lives, including the workplace. Yet, it’s often a topic we shy away from, unsure of what to say or how to help.
The workplace is a place of deadlines, projects, and team dynamics, but it’s also made up of people who carry their personal struggles and stories into the office. Grief isn’t something that can be left at the door — it’s felt in the quiet moments between tasks, in the weight of unread emails, and in the half-hearted smiles that don’t quite reach the eyes.
For those grieving, showing up to work can feel like balancing on a tightrope, attempting to maintain a semblance of normalcy while coping with profound loss. Understanding this reality is the first step in building a supportive work culture.
1.Foster a Culture of Compassion Creating an environment where it’s okay to talk about grief is crucial. When colleagues feel comfortable sharing their struggles, they also feel less alone. A simple acknowledgment, like “I’m here if you need to talk”, can mean more than you might imagine.
2.Offer Flexibility Grief isn’t linear. There will be good days and difficult days. Being flexible with deadlines, offering remote work options, or allowing time off when needed can relieve some of the burden.
3.3. Listen Without the Need to Fix One of the most valuable things you can do for a grieving colleague is listen. There’s no expectation to offer perfect words or solutions; simply saying, “I can’t imagine how hard this must be for you, but I’m here” shows empathy and understanding.
4.4. Provide Resources and Support Sometimes, professional support is needed. Letting employees know about available resources, such as counselling services or mental health hotlines, can empower them to seek help when ready.
Leaders play an essential role in shaping how grief is approached at work. Demonstrating vulnerability by sharing personal experiences or showing that it’s okay to take a step back when needed sets the tone for others to feel safe doing the same.
Supporting grief in the workplace isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about small acts of kindness that remind people they’re seen and valued. It’s checking in with a colleague, offering a helping hand on a heavy workload, or simply being present in their journey.
National Grief Awareness Week serves as an important reminder that grief is a shared human experience. By fostering a workplace where empathy and support are woven into our interactions, we can create a space where healing isn’t just possible, but encouraged.
Let’s honour this week by recognising that behind every desk is a person with a story — and sometimes, that story includes grief. Together, we can make a difference, one kind word and one act of support at a time.
