This online event is the first of its kind in Ireland and will bring together HUGG's evidence-based knowledge of suicide bereavement and the voice of those with lived experience of suicide loss, coupled with the practical and emotional supports offered by the Embrace FARM network. The keynote speaker on the night will be Liz Gleeson, psychotherapist, lecturer and grief and loss specialist, whose podcast Shapes of Grief has found its way onto recommended resources in universities and colleges internationally as a resource for grief education. She has also developed the award-winning Shapes of Grief Training Programme, the only programme that features contributions from grief experts worldwide.
Attendees will also hear the personal story of a farmer who is bereaved by suicide. He will share his own story of how suicide has impacted him and his family and what has helped him to move forward.
Norma Rohan, co-founder of Embrace FARM said the sad reality is that suicide is becoming commonplace in our farming communities. “Death by suicide is affecting more farm families, and for us at Embrace FARM, we are working with many farm families who are dealing with the pain of this loss. This webinar will not only remind those in our community of the supports we offer but will also address the stigma surrounding suicide that is still so prevalent to those seeking help.”
Fiona Tuomey, founder and CEO of HUGG, lost her daughter, Milly, to suicide in 2016. Fiona understands only too well the reality of what is facing many families following a suicide. ‘’Sadly, suicides in the farming community are a reality. Rural isolation, stigma, and overwhelming grief, in addition to managing ongoing farming issues, can prevent those left behind from getting information and support. We want to change this and connect with this unique group of people living with suicide loss.”
The event will run for approximately one hour. Spaces are limited, so attendees are asked to register in advance: https://bit.ly/SuicideInTheFarmingCommunity