Ben Melbourne wanted to meet other like minded people who were proactive with the grief.
Along with his mother Jane, he was one of 16 bereaved parents and siblings who joined us on last month’s Active Grief Weekend retreat.
Ben’s brother Jake had taken his own life in August 2023, shortly after Jake’s partner Jess had died from cancer.
The weekends are exclusive to bereaved parents and siblings and are structured around the three two hour workshops – photography, creative writing and physical exercise.
For many the highlight of the ‘active’ session, is the pad boxing and the way it helps us release some of the more uncomfortable emotions our grief will bring up.
"I got in touch with my grief which had depths I’d not experienced – so precious to share my son’s life – something I’ve wanted to do but never had the chance."
Bereaved Mum
But it’s the meal times and the in between times where those important conversations can happen as we share our memories and how we are coping with the trauma that has affected all our lives.
For some this was to be the first time they’ve been in such exclusive company, that club that no one wants to join. For others, it’s a special release from having to hide their feelings from a society that can be so fearful of engaging with us.
9th – 11th May 2025
19th – 21st September 2025
both at Blackadon Farm on Dartmoor
"I leave feeling lighter and not just happier but HAPPY.’"
Bereaved Mum
Check out these images created as part of the photography workshop: