About us
Loss and Hope is the church focused project of the bereavement charity AtaLoss.
Our goal is to equip UK churches and Christians of every denomination to reach out to their communities in bereavement support for social transformation, wellbeing and mission.
Why Bereavement Support?
Bereavement support is misunderstood and under-supported
Millions of people – all ages – are bereaved in the UK every year, but society doesn’t fully understand the impact or provide adequate support.
Grief is not the only problem. Every aspect of life can be affected. Bereavement can affect practically, physically, psychologically, behaviourally, relationally and spiritually, as well as emotionally.
Therapists are often the only support known, but they can be costly and over-subscribed.
Bereavement support is prevention
Unsupported bereavement is a main contributor to many of our societal issues, including mental and physical ill-health, relationship breakdown, job loss, addiction, and debt.
Timely help can make all the difference, enabling bereaved people to navigate their circumstances and reach a healthy, new normal.
Why the Church?
Social transformation and mission
“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress.” James 1:27 (NIV)
There’s a clear call in Scripture for churches to reflect God’s compassion for those who are vulnerable and grieving.
Churches are in every community, involved in funerals and available to bring healing and hope.
Most bereavements can be processed healthily where there is understanding, community care.
Bereavement naturally raises big questions about purpose, God and existence beyond death.
Research has shown that 90% of the public expect churches to help them with grief (Life Events research, Church of England, 2021)
A life event – positive or negative – is the biggest influence in adults coming to faith (Talking Jesus research, Hope Together, 2022)
We have before us an extraordinary opportunity to show to an increasing number of people that God is good, and that churches and the Christian faith can provide healing and hope for the future.
What can you do?
We are seeking Christians – churches, organisations and individuals – to join us in reaching out in bereavement support and in spreading the word about the need and opportunity bereavement support presents.