Stanway: Creative programme helps people deal with grief

The Creative Grief Programme, based in Stanway, has been designed to support people living with loss, using art and shared discussion to help them explore and express their feelings in a safe and supportive environment.

It is run by counsellors Rebecca Garwood, 42, and Gemma Brown, 45, who both hold degrees in person-centred counselling and psychotherapy from Colchester Institute.

The idea for the programme began with a self-funded, four-week pilot in June.

Ms Garwood said: "It was about encouraging honest conversations and giving people the opportunity to express their grief, rather than feeling they have to hold it in or hide it.

“Grief isn’t linear, there is no set path for grief and everyone grieves differently."

Feedback from participants highlighted the value of the sessions and led to the creation of a longer, six-week programme which starts on September 11.

Each session combines psychoeducation with creative exercises—such as painting, drawing, and metaphor—designed to help participants process their emotions in new ways.

One activity used Russian dolls to help participants explore the different layers of their grief, starting with what is visible to the outside world and working inward.

The group is intentionally kept small, with a maximum of eight participants, to allow for meaningful connection and individual support.

The programme recently received Community Interest Company (CIC) status on August 18, enabling the team to apply for funding, with hopes to subsidise or fully fund places, with the long-term aim of making sessions free to participants.

Ms Garwood said: "As we grow, we are seeking local funding to help us continue delivering our much‑needed courses to people in the community who are struggling with grief and loss."

The next six-week group begins on September 11 and will be held every Friday.

Spaces are still available, and referrals can be made via The Creative Grief Programme’s social media pages on Facebook and Instagram.

The organisers speak directly with each applicant to ensure group work is appropriate for them.

Ms Garwood said: "Grief affects so many people, and our aim is to open up these conversations and make grief something we don’t have to carry alone."