Author
- D Lee1
- The Centre For Care and Wellbeing at Springvale Botanical Cemetery1
2018
Excerpt
Introduction: CCW is an innovative new model of care and support for visitors to a cemetery. The intention of CCW is of stewarding, comforting and supporting those navigating grief and loss. While Springvale Botanical Cemeteries’ beautiful gardens and facilities provide solace to bereaved families, CCW provides human connection and emotional support.
Objectives: To promote a respectful, connected social community through a holistic approach to physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Provide education and services for those transitioning through grief and loss in a supportive caring manner. The common denominator of losing a loved one enables visitors to connect with each other, share stories and experiences and offer nonjudgmental understanding and support. Encourage and support ceremonies and rituals to honour and allow the preservation of memories and respect all cultural preferences and values.
Approach: By listening and being adaptive to diverse needs, CCW has been established as a ‘facilitator’ that supports visitors in determining programs that are suitable based on their needs. Some of the approaches available include music and sound therapy, meditation, art therapy, group education, grief talks, nature walks, mindfulness activities, gentle movement and stretch. Specific group sessions include Mother’s, Men’s and Widow’s support, together with other regular activities to promote additional social interaction benefits.
Practice Implications: CCW has become a ‘safe - sanctuary’ – a multi-use facility in providing knowledge, support and guidance using a variety of techniques to help calm and relax the body and mind whilst lifting mood and reducing stress. CCW provides a safe place to talk, listen, share feelings, reduce isolation and encourage new friendships.
Conclusions: CCW is committed to providing all visitors with care, compassion, connection, empathy, understanding and healing!
Objectives: To promote a respectful, connected social community through a holistic approach to physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Provide education and services for those transitioning through grief and loss in a supportive caring manner. The common denominator of losing a loved one enables visitors to connect with each other, share stories and experiences and offer nonjudgmental understanding and support. Encourage and support ceremonies and rituals to honour and allow the preservation of memories and respect all cultural preferences and values.
Approach: By listening and being adaptive to diverse needs, CCW has been established as a ‘facilitator’ that supports visitors in determining programs that are suitable based on their needs. Some of the approaches available include music and sound therapy, meditation, art therapy, group education, grief talks, nature walks, mindfulness activities, gentle movement and stretch. Specific group sessions include Mother’s, Men’s and Widow’s support, together with other regular activities to promote additional social interaction benefits.
Practice Implications: CCW has become a ‘safe - sanctuary’ – a multi-use facility in providing knowledge, support and guidance using a variety of techniques to help calm and relax the body and mind whilst lifting mood and reducing stress. CCW provides a safe place to talk, listen, share feelings, reduce isolation and encourage new friendships.
Conclusions: CCW is committed to providing all visitors with care, compassion, connection, empathy, understanding and healing!