12 August

Key strategies for navigating grief in the workplace

Grief is a deeply personal experience that can significantly impact both emotional well-being and professional performance.

In a recent webinar hosted by the This is Me Programme Manager Bethan Aspland, experts shared valuable insights on how organisations can effectively support grieving employees.

Develop a Comprehensive Grief Policy

A clear and compassionate grief policy is essential for supporting employees during difficult times. This policy should outline available support, such as leave entitlements and flexible working arrangements.

Faith Holloway, Hospice UK advises against being overly prescriptive with leave durations, suggesting that a starting point of ten days is common, but flexibility is key. She says 'there’s still a large percentage of employees that don’t know their policy or even how to find it in the organisation," she cautions, highlighting the importance of making these policies easily accessible.'

Promote Open Communication

Encouraging open dialogue about grief in the workplace is vital to reducing stigma and normalising the conversation. Creating a culture where employees feel safe sharing their experiences fosters a supportive environment.

'Create environments where employees feel understood and supported' advises Tilly Lewis of BoxClever Consulting, stressing the importance of empathy in these conversations. Bethan Aspland adds that 'opening a conversation through sharing of experiences and journeys can normalise these experiences of grief and mental health.' 

Provide Training for Managers

Managers are on the front lines of supporting grieving employees, yet many feel unprepared for this role. Hospice UK research found that one in five managers lack confidence in discussing grief with their team. Training is crucial to help managers recognise signs of grief and provide ongoing support.

'We do need better support for managers on a rolling basis, not just reactive' emphasises Faith Holloway. Dr. Erin Thompson from The Loss Foundation also advocates for 'an evidence-based approach, really understand what people are actually struggling with, and what actually helps.'

Implement Grief Support Systems

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) can be a valuable resource, offering professional counseling services to those struggling with grief. However, these should complement, not replace, internal support systems.

Faith Holloway notes that 'EAPs are great for short-term acute needs, but they’re definitely not a replacement for internal support.' Other supportive initiatives might include peer support groups and manager check-ins. Katy Snell of Emerald Publishing suggests 'offering a reduced workload or temporary reassignment of duties to help grieving employees manage their responsibilities without feeling overwhelmed.'

Create a Supportive Community

Fostering a sense of community among employees can be incredibly comforting for those dealing with grief. Peer support groups and informal networks within the workplace can provide much-needed solidarity.

Analise Rodgers-Callan from KPMG highlights the power of 'grief cafes' where employees can share their experiences in a safe, informal setting. 'It’s accessible to everyone, whatever stage of grief they’re at' she says, adding that 'these spaces have helped her build a new, supportive community at work.' 

Recognise Individual Differences in Grief

Grief is a highly individual experience, and support must be tailored to each person's needs. 'It’s personal to everyone, and everyone reacts differently,' emphasises Analise Rodgers-Callan. Dr. Erin Thompson adds, 'The ideal approach is being as personalised as possible. Asking people what they need and how it helps.'

Respecting these differences ensures that employees receive the support that is most meaningful to them.

Final Thoughts

Supporting grieving employees requires a thoughtful and compassionate approach. By developing comprehensive policies, promoting open communication, providing manager training, offering EAPs, fostering a supportive community, and recognising individual differences, organisations can make a significant difference in the lives of their employees during challenging times.

Implementing these strategies can help ensure that employees do not face their grief alone and can continue to contribute meaningfully to the workplace as they navigate their personal losses.

For more information on supporting employees through grief, watch the full webinar on the This is Me Resource Hub here