As an Alliance, we have core objectives to ensure that the impact of bereavement is considered at both a policy and practice level.

Our objectives:

• Advocacy and Campaigning: We influence Government, the NHS, other local and national bodies and the general public to improve the lives of people who have been bereaved, including underserved and diverse communities.

• Promoting a robust sector: We improve the quality of services by promoting clear standards so bereaved people are better served; identifying gaps in provision and working towards seamless support.

• Championing research and evidence: We gather and disseminate evidence of the impact of bereavement and bereavement support to strengthen practice and services. This includes learning and good practice from members and supporting evidence based practice.

• Communities of practice: We help members develop their services by strengthening their links with other organisations supporting bereaved people, exchanging information and good practice and promoting the wellbeing of those who work in the sector.

Bereavement Support Service Standards

We endorse the Bereavement Support Service Standards 2024 as a framework for service quality. All members are expected to adhere to these standards. We are not an accrediting body and do not take responsibility for the quality or delivery of members’ services. We expect members to self-audit, and share learning and good practice across the Alliance.