Local and regional bereavement networks help foster collaboration between organisations across a particular geographic area. While each organisation has its own focus and catchment, most can benefit from working more closely with other organisations in their local area. Historically, networks have formed as part of local end of life care pathways, or as a group of local bereavement service providers who wish to link together to provide best practice. Sometimes, networks or consortia emerge more quickly in response to a local tender or other funding opportunity.

This briefing is aimed at anyone thinking about setting up a local or regional bereavement network. It draws on the learning from existing networks to outline helpful approaches, anticipate some of the challenges, and help find a way forward.