Grief Support Testimonials: Real Stories of Impact
What people say after the training
At The Flying Fish Company, we’ve had the privilege of walking alongside individuals and organisations as they navigate some of life’s most difficult moments. Whether it’s through live training, our podcast or the Manager’s Toolkit, we’re honoured to hear how our work has helped people feel more supported, more confident, and a little less alone.
Below are just a few of the reflections people have shared…
The Angel of the North reimagined in a burst of technicolour, a symbol of strength, hope, and resilience.
Proven Impact – Backed by Real Participant Feedback
Survey insights from our pre and post-training evaluations
Our sessions are designed to create lasting change in understanding and confidence. Anonymous feedback collected before and after each course consistently shows a significant uplift in participants’ ability to support a grieving colleague.
Anonymous self reporting indicates that average participant confidence increases significantly after just one hour of training.
Key Takeaways from Participants
Clearer understanding of what to say and what not to say
“I now feel more confident starting conversations without worrying I’ll make things worse.”
Why it matters: Many people avoid speaking to bereaved colleagues for fear of saying the wrong thing. Having the right words helps build trust and prevents further isolation.
Opening Up Conversations in the Workplace
"I can now create space for open, respectful discussions about loss."
Why this matters: Encouraging safe conversations around grief helps to normalise it in the workplace and supports a healthier culture..
Practical Tools for Support
“I now have strategies I can use straight away in my role.”
Why this matters: A structured approach reduces uncertainty and ensures that practical and emotional needs are addressed promptly.
Recognising Individual Needs
"I understand that everyone’s experience of grief is different and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach."
Why this matters: Tailoring support to the individual shows respect, builds rapport and avoids unhelpful generalisations.
Equip your team before they need it.
Our training ensures managers and colleagues feel confident, compassionate and capable of supporting grief in the workplace, when it matters most.
Training & Workshops:
What Participants Are Saying
“Helen delivered three very popular webinars on the topic of navigating bereavement, for our primary care professionals. She shared moving personal stories which really resonated with our audience, and delivered the sessions in a very sensitive, caring and honest way.”
— Thornfields [Primary Care Training Specialists]
“Her webinars focussed on aspects of grief that many people lack confidence in, with a dedicated session for managers and one for staff too. They were incredibly thought-provoking sessions, and gave genuinely useful tools and techniques to use both in the workplace and in our personal lives.”
— Thornfields [Primary Care Training Specialists]
"Helen delivered an engaging and uplifting presentation on grief and loss. She made a sensitive topic feel accessible without being overwhelming, offering practical tools and a powerful reminder that we never fully see another person's experience. Thank you, Helen."
— Avantor Sciences
“Very helpful, made me think more about what to say and do and what not to say and do. Thank you”
— Introduction to Grief in the Workplace attendee
“ After the [grief, culture and religion] session, I have changed the way I think about my practice and now when I am notified about deaths, I will remember to be curious about different religious mourning practices and will communicate in a way that is best fitting for them.”
— Grief and Culture attendee
“ I now feel less alone.”
— Introduction to Grief in the Workplace attendee
“[the webinar] deepened my awareness of dealing with grief in the workplace. It was an excellent use of my time.”
— webinar Attendee
Alongside the personal feedback, our post-session surveys show clear, measurable improvements in confidence and understanding.
Podcast Testimonials:
Finding Comfort in Shared Experiences
“ I just want you to know that I found comfort from your first podcast recognising grief. I have lost both my parents in the last three years and their situations relating to their deaths have been different. Living through these experiences have been painful, upsetting, and difficult and the aftermath grief. When watching your podcast, I recognised some of your feelings of grief were like mine and I found this a comfort. I felt that your words and overall approach was one of support. Also, sharing your own personal journey after your husband’s suicide gave me an insight into how others feel after this trauma and will help me working with my role with students with mental health problems and give me insight. I’m looking forward to watching the other podcast. Thanks ”
[Podcast Viewer]
I've just watched your 3rd podcast and OMG I had tears in my eyes because it made me think back to when K was first diagnosed with a disability at age 3. I used to think why has this happened to my baby, what kind of future is she going to have etc. I actually felt guilty for feeling like that because I wouldn't change her for the world but listening to your podcast made me think I was probably grieving for what I was hoping she would have in her future rather than embracing her whatever the future held.
[Podcast Viewer]
Your third podcast is amazing. It's so relevant and it's just taken so much pressure off how I'm feeling. I've wanted so many times to explain the last two years as grieving but always felt I'd be judged because no one died. Thank you for putting this out there. I know I've found so much but I lost so much and i really feel like I've been grieving and cried all the way through your podcast because it was just a relief to allow myself to have these feelings without guilt.
[Podcast Viewer]
It’s always deeply moving to receive feedback on my work. If any of my sessions have helped you navigate your own loss or given you a clearer understanding of someone else’s grief, I would love to hear from you. Your insights not only mean a great deal to me but also help show the real impact of creating compassionate spaces.
If you’d like to share your own experience, please leave your feedback here —>
Or, if you would like to be a guest on my podcast please contact me here —>