King's College London

Through a series of bespoke events, the initiative fostered a growth-focused culture of care, support, and active listening to support members of the King’s community to navigate grief together.

The series was supported by the SPE Opportunity Fund and delivered by BSc Economics graduate (2025), Jeremy Wong. The series emphasised compassion, accessibility, and evidence-informed practice.

Jeremy said: “This week showed how powerful it can be when we approach grief with care, education, and community. I’m really glad so many people resonated with the events, and I’m confident they lay the foundation for a long-term, community-driven approach to grief support at work and university.”

Grieve Gently Week was delivered with cross-university collaboration and sector-wide support. With thanks to SPE Student Engagement, Student Wellbeing Services, Chaplaincy & Staff Wellbeing, as well as leading UK bereavement charities including Cruse Bereavement Support, The Good Grief Trust, Suicide&Co, and Winston’s Wish. This ensured the programme was both evidence-informed and grounded in best practice.

The week consisted of three events:

1) Educational Workshop - a science-informed workshop exploring how grief shows up in academic and professional environments, with practical tools for communication and grief terminology, reintegration and self-advocacy.

2) Community Walk & Seed Planting – a low-pressure space for collective healing through movement, nature, and gentle connection. Participants were encouraged to plant seeds, creating a shared ritual of growth, remembrance & living legacies.

3) Guided Meditation - a closing session centred on nervous-system regulation and presence, offering students and staff practical tools they could carry forward into daily life. Participants felt calmer, more grounded and inspired to continue these interventions