New grief alliance aims to equip Nova Scotians with valuable supports

HALIFAX, N.S. – A new province-wide initiative dedicated to strengthening grief support through community-based education, resource sharing and collaboration has now launched.

The Nova Scotia Grief Alliance is a partnership between Nova Scotia Health and the Nova Scotia Hospice Palliative Care Association, developed with the support of the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Government of Nova Scotia.

“Grief is a deeply personal and often complex experience,” said Tim Guest, executive director of the Nova Scotia Hospice Palliative Care Association. “This initiative prioritizes compassionate, grief-informed care and expands access to vital resources. Together, we are working to ensure no one has to experience loss alone and that grief supports continue to improve for all Nova Scotians.”

The grief alliance will serve as a hub for individuals, health professionals and community organizations either working in grief support or interested in grief education. It aims to build capacity and foster relationships where participants can learn, share, and access best practices in grief support.

“This partnership is a meaningful step forward in strengthening community-based approaches to grief across Nova Scotia and normalizing grief as a human experience,” said Lindsay Sutherland, director of policy and planning for grief and bereavement with Nova Scotia Health’s Palliative Care Network.

“Our community partners have always played a key role in building compassionate communities, where those living with loss feel seen, supported, and understood. Through the grief alliance, their voices help shape educational offerings and capacity-building efforts —supporting those who are grieving, and those who care for them,” Sutherland said.

To learn more about the alliance and opportunities to participate in virtual and in-person events, visit www.nsgriefalliance.com or contact griefalliance@nshpca.ca.

Events and learning opportunities will continue to evolve over time.

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