On Sunday 8th September at Butterfly Meadow, in Shenfield, near Brentwood in Essex, an afternoon entitled ‘Smashing the Stigma’, will run from 1.00pm until 4.30pm and will be for those who have lost loved ones, friends or colleagues to suicide, hosted by Bennetts Funerals.

This came about after a local minister contacted Bennetts about working together on an event following a death by suicide within their family unit; this was the trigger Bennetts needed as they had wished to confront this tragic subject for some time.

The afternoon is for those who have lost loved ones to suicide, a chance to talk to others, if they wish to; a time for prayer if they wish to; to gain information and just be amongst those who truly ‘get it’. A subtle butterfly design badge will be given out to identify those who wish to and are willing to talk to others, and a plan is being formulated so those at the day can be part of making a butterfly mosaic for Butterfly Meadow. Other age relevant activities will be available for those wishing to take part.

Bennetts Funerals have been in touch with Andy’s Man Club, The Craig Tyler Trust, Mind and Papyrus, Survivors of Bereavement Through Suicide, Renew and several other organisations who will be there. There will be refreshments, counsellors and others available who can lend an ear and signpost to ongoing support, for adults and children. Essex Working Well and Brentwood Borough Council are supporting the event too, plus St Mary’s Church who are letting us use the church and Butterfly Meadow.

There is limited parking, please use local side streets to endeavour to keep the bend near the church clear.

Bennetts welcome other local support organisations to take part and help on the day, the more volunteers the better! If you are intending to come along, to assist with catering requirements, please email info@bennettsfunerals.co.uk or call on 01277 210104.