Available Now
The Manager’s Toolkit
Responding to grief with Confidence
Now Available – The Manager’s Toolkit
When grief enters the workplace, managers are often the first line of support. Yet many feel unsure what to say or do.
The Manager’s Toolkit is here to change that, giving you clear, practical steps to respond with confidence and compassion when it matters most.
For a limited time, access is available at no cost as part of my commitment to making compassionate grief support accessible in every workplace.
This page introduces a practical resource for managers supporting grief in the workplace. Whether you are guiding a colleague through bereavement, responding to a sudden loss or preparing your team with compassionate tools, the Manager’s Toolkit is here to help.
What’s Included in the Manager’s Grief Toolkit
Four short, practical training videos to guide managers through grief-related conversations
Subtitles available on all videos for accessibility
A downloadable PDF guide to accompany each video
Optional feedback form for reflections or follow-up support
This toolkit is grounded in lived experience, current research and recognised guidance on supporting employees after bereavement or sudden loss. It offers practical suggestions to help managers respond with compassion and sensitivity. It is not intended to provide legal or clinical advice.
Each video offers managers practical steps to navigate grief-related situations with clarity, care, and confidence.
Think of this as a Grief Support 101
A clear, steady starting point you can turn to in the moment. Whether you’re facing a sudden loss or supporting an ongoing situation.
Like a lifebuoy, it’s there to help you stay anchored, grounded, and able to respond with care when it matters most. These tools are designed to give managers the confidence to act, even in the most difficult circumstances.
Scroll down to see a description of each of the four videos included and accompanying PDF
PDF Now Available
Toolkit Companion PDF (Downloadable Guide)
This single PDF brings together key points from all four videos, including suggested phrases, space-holding techniques, tips for managing grief-related challenges, and a quick-reference checklist for sudden death scenarios.
It’s ideal for printing or saving to refer back to when a colleague is affected by loss.
Video #1 Now Available
What To Say (and What Not To Say)
This video explores how to approach a grieving team member with care and confidence. It includes simple, compassionate phrases to help you open a conversation, as well as common well-meaning comments that can do more harm than good. A practical guide for those who want to offer support without overstepping.
Video #2 Now Available
How to Hold Space as a Manager
What does it mean to 'hold space' for someone at work? This video looks at how managers can support without rushing to fix, problem-solve or minimise emotion. It introduces calm, grounded strategies to help you create a safe and respectful environment when someone is grieving.
Video #3 Now Available
Supporting Staff After the Sudden Death of a Colleague
This session offers guidance on what to do in the days and weeks following the unexpected death of a colleague. It covers how to communicate sensitively, plan support with HR, and acknowledge the loss with dignity. Designed to help you balance compassion with practical leadership.
Video #4 Now Available
Understanding the Impact of Suicide in the Workplace
This video focuses on the specific challenges that arise when a colleague or loved one dies by suicide. It explains the ripple effects this can have on teams and how to respond with care. Aimed at helping managers navigate stigma, shock and long-term emotional impact with sensitivity.
Want to stay in the loop?
I'm looking for a small group of people to test the Manager’s Grief Toolkit before it officially launches.
If you're interested in grief awareness and supporting your team through loss, sign up below to register your interest. You’ll get early access, a chance to shape the final version, and first updates on upcoming training resources and courses.
Explore More Resources for Team-Wide Grief Awareness
While the Manager’s Toolkit is designed specifically for leaders, these additional resources support a broader, team-wide approach to grief in the workplace.
Why Grief Training Matters
A wider look at the role of grief awareness across organisations and how compassionate culture benefits everyone.
Upcoming Webinars & Events
Join live sessions designed to support workplace wellbeing and inclusive grief literacy at all levels.
Introductory Grief Awareness Course
A short, practical session designed for entire teams. Helps staff understand how grief may show up at work — and how to respond sensitively.
Podcast: Navigating Life After Loss
Thoughtful conversations on grief, healing and support, suitable for both individuals and teams looking to deepen their understanding.
