Compassion in the workplace: Helping a colleague through grief
Workplace wellbeing goes beyond flexible hours and healthy routines – it also means standing beside colleagues during life’s toughest moments.
When someone experiences a significant loss, returning to work can feel overwhelming. Employers and co-workers play a vital role in creating a compassionate environment that helps a grieving colleague feel supported and understood.
Understanding the challenges of grief at work
Grief affects people in deeply personal ways. But common workplace difficulties include trouble concentrating, fatigue, unpredictable emotions and reduced motivation. Bereaved employees may struggle with social interactions, deadlines or even the physical act of coming to work. The pressure to ‘return to normal’ can intensify feelings of isolation or anxiety.
Tips for employers
1) Acknowledge the loss: A simple, sincere message of condolence shows care and recognition.
2) Offer flexibility: Provide options for flexible hours, remote working or a gradual return-to-work plan to ease the transition.
3) Review policies: Make sure bereavement leave, mental health resources and Employee Assistance Programmes (EAP) are clearly communicated.
4) Signpost to professional help: Encourage staff to access free grief support through GriefLine or consider going along to their nearest St Clare Hospice Bereavement Café.
Tips for colleagues
1) Reach out gently: A short message or kind word can mean more than silence. Avoid cliches – simple phrases like ‘I’m so sorry for your loss’ are enough.
2) Follow their lead: Let the bereaved colleague decide how much they wish to share and respect their boundaries.
3) Offer practical help: Covering a shift, assisting with a deadline or sharing a coffee break can lighten their load.
4) Share resources: Remind them that confidential, non-judgement support is available via GriefLine. Our specially trained call handlers are waiting to offer a listening ear, emotional support and signpost them to other relevant services.
Creating a workplace of care
Supporting a grieving colleague – and connecting them with expert services like GriefLine – not only provides comfort, but strengthens team resilience and fosters a culture where people feel valued beyond their productivity.
For free, confidential support, call GriefLine on 01279 945089.
