When Comfort and Hope Bereavement Support was founded in March 2025, it began with a simple but powerful idea, that nobody should have to face grief alone.

After the closure of the group they had previously supported, Comfort and Hope founders, Phoebe and Michelle, recognised a serious gap in local support. There were few places for people in Rhondda Cynon Taf to turn to after a bereavement, particularly if they just needed someone to listen. Determined to change that, the pair, together with a colleague, decided to start something new: a safe, welcoming space for anyone struggling with loss.

With guidance and encouragement from Interlink RCT, Comfort and Hope took shape. Interlink supported the founders through the practical steps of setting up a community group, creating a constitution, forming a committee and securing a start-up grant. This early support helped the team establish strong foundations and gave them confidence to grow.

Building a Local Lifeline

Comfort and Hope’s mission is simple: to help people adjust to life after loss, providing both comfort and practical help along the way. The group offers three types of free support:

• Listening Support – a space to talk and offload feelings without judgement.

• Hands-On Support – practical help for those struggling with daily tasks following a bereavement.

• Moving Forward Support – gentle guidance for those ready to rebuild routines and find purpose again.

Phoebe brings warmth, empathy and a natural ability to listen, while Michelle’s strong organisational skills keep everything running smoothly. Together, they’ve created a compassionate, community-led space that treats every grief journey as unique.

Michelle reflects on her own journey:

“I’ve gone from attending a grief support group, where I found confidence to deal with my grief and carry it, to now helping others through Comfort and Hope. Phoebe saw how I comfort and support people and thought it would be a great skill to bring to the group.”

Overcoming Challenges

The early days weren’t without obstacles. Some questioned whether the group could operate without formal counselling qualifications, but the founders stood firm in their belief that listening and compassion don’t require certificates, just care and understanding.

Finding a suitable venue was another challenge, until Cambrian Village Trust stepped in to offer space and support. The group now runs regular sessions at Cambrian, where attendees can talk over refreshments, take part in wellbeing activities, and access walking and sensory spaces.

“When one door shuts, another opens,” says Phoebe. “It’s been a journey of trial and error, but every challenge has led us somewhere better.”

Making an Impact

In just six months, Comfort and Hope has supported around 70 individuals, quickly becoming a trusted local presence. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many saying the group helped them find meaning, confidence and connection again after loss. Comfort and Hope’s work extends beyond emotional support, the team also signposts people to practical help with housing, benefits, finances and wellbeing activities. By linking members to community groups and volunteering opportunities, they help people rebuild purpose and re-engage with life.

Growing with Support

Interlink RCT has continued to play a vital role in the group’s growth, providing training, safeguarding guidance, networking opportunities and DBS checks for volunteers. Through these connections, Comfort and Hope has linked with organisations like Pontypridd Foodbank, Brothers in Arms, and The Little Shed, building a strong local network of care.

Looking Ahead

The future looks bright for Comfort and Hope. The group plans to expand with more trained volunteers, develop step-by-step support booklets, and begin new companionship sessions for older residents in Porth.

At Cambrian, they’re also working with Interlink to ensure members can access a range of community activities, from gardening and walking groups to volunteering and dance sessions to help people regain confidence and independence.

As Phoebe puts it:

“It’s about helping people grow through what they go through. Grief changes life instantly, but with the right support, it doesn’t have to stop it.”