LGBT Ireland is launching Living with Loss, a new in-person bereavement peer support group in Dublin for people who have lost a same-sex partner. Meeting on the evening of the last Wednesday of each month, the group offers a safe and confidential space to connect with others who have experienced similar loss.

Grief can be overwhelming, but support from those who truly understand can make a difference. Led by trained peer facilitators, Living with Loss provides a space for comfort, shared experiences, and healing.

This new service grew from a partnership between All Ireland Institute of Hospice and Palliative Care (AIIHPC), LGBT Ireland, and the Irish Hospice Foundation, which began hosting Death Cafés around Ireland in 2022. These open conversations about death, dying, and bereavement highlighted significant gaps in support for LGBTQ+ people facing loss. As a result, the organisations developed an end-of-life guide for the LGBTQ+ community, and this bereavement group is the next step in ensuring continued support.

The idea for Living with Loss came from members of the community who recognised the need for such a space. After seeing LGBT Ireland’s work in the area, Bill Foley and Derry Carroll approached the organisation with the suggestion for a dedicated peer support group.

 

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Drawing from his own experience, Bill Foley shared: “When my partner died, I thought my life was over. The joys we shared—family events, travel, love, and intimacy—would never be the same. It was the worst time of my life. I was lucky to have support, but not everyone is so fortunate.

“Losing a same-sex partner comes with unique challenges, including a lack of recognition for the relationship. I would have benefitted from speaking to someone who truly understood that loss. I hope Living with Loss can provide that support for others. You never ‘get over’ it, but with encouragement, you learn to navigate life again.”

Speaking about the new bereavement support group, LGBT Ireland Head of Services Adam McBride said: “Through our existing frontline supports, we are very aware of the need for an LGBTQI+ specific bereavement group.

“When our community experiences grief, it comes with nuances that existing bereavement groups may not understand. By providing a space for discussion of this shared lived experience, LGBT Ireland hopes to support people at a sad and difficult time.”

Pre-registration is required to receive the meeting location. To sign up, email [email protected].

If you need additional support, the Irish Hospice Foundation Bereavement Support Line offers a free national service at 1800 80 70 77, available Monday to Friday, 10am to 1pm.

The National LGBT Helpline is available seven days a week on freephone 1800 929 539 from 6:30pm to 10pm (Monday–Thursday), 4pm to 10pm (Friday), and 4pm to 6pm (Saturday & Sunday).