This first episode welcomes to you to Grief is My New Hobby. The a podcast that does not follow the rules around grief, it refuses to conform to the way society expects us to act. This podcast comes with a trigger warning of swearing, discussion of suicide and death.

I will talk about why I started this podcast and you'll learn a bit about my incredible parents who both lost their lives way too early. I will talk about loneliness that comes along with grief and share a couple of tips from the most intense year of my life.

If you are struggling and feel alone, please see the numbers below for U.K. based organisations that may be able to help.

Cruse Bereavement Support

• Website: www.cruse.org.uk
• Helpline: 0808 808 1677 (Free, confidential)
• Info: Offers grief counselling, support groups, and helplines for all ages.

Samaritans

• Website: www.samaritans.org
• Helpline: 116 123 (24/7, free)
• Info: Not grief-specific, but offers emotional support for anyone struggling, including with bereavement.

Child Bereavement UK

• Website: www.childbereavementuk.org
• Helpline: 0800 02 888 40
• Info: Supports families and professionals when a child dies or when a child is bereaved.

Winston’s Wish

• Website: www.winstonswish.org
• Helpline: 08088 020 021
• Info: Focuses on childhood bereavement. Practical support for grieving children and their families.

The Good Grief Trust

• Website: www.thegoodgrieftrust.org
• Info: Offers a searchable database of support services by type of bereavement. Also provides peer support.

Marie Curie Bereavement Support

• Website: www.mariecurie.org.uk
• Support Line: 0800 090 2309
• Info: For people dealing with terminal illness or bereavement. Also offers 1-on-1 bereavement support.

AtaLoss.org

• Website: www.ataloss.org
• Info: UK’s signposting website for anyone bereaved, with counselling options and local support.

Grief Encounter

• Website: www.griefencounter.org.uk
• Helpline: 0808 802 0111
• Info: Provides tailored support to bereaved children and young people.