Patrick Vernon

Reflections from the Launch of the Bristol Centre for Grief Research & Engagement

It was great to attend the launch in Parliament of the Bristol Centre for Grief Research & Engagement, and to join an inspiring range of speakers, including University of Bristol PVC Prof. Guy Poppy CB FMedSci, Julia Samuel MBE, and Dr Alison Penny MBE.

It was a pleasure to meet Hannah Youell, who read a powerful poem on grief and loss. I also had the opportunity to read a poem by the Senegalese poet Birago Diop.

Sharing Diop’s “Breaths” reminded me of the powerful way grief connects us to those who came before us. The poem teaches that the dead are never truly gone; they live on in the world around us — in the wind, the trees, the water, and in the quiet rhythms of daily life. It speaks to an understanding of grief deeply rooted in African philosophies: that our ancestors remain present, guiding us, breathing through us. In a society that often minimises grief — particularly the grief experienced by Black and racially minoritised communities, whose losses are compounded by structural inequality and racism — Diop’s words offer a narrative of continuity, dignity, and spiritual resilience. In sharing this poem, I hoped to honour that lineage and affirm that our grief, both personal and collective, carries memory, presence, and connection.

As three million people are bereaved each year in the UK, too many still do not receive the support they need. As a proud member of the UK Bereavement Commission, I know that far more must be done to promote and normalise conversations about grief in society. This includes recognising the deep inequalities experienced by Black and racially minoritised communities, whose grief is often further shaped — and intensified — by structural inequities and racism.

This event not only celebrated what has been achieved so far, but also reaffirmed the urgent need to transform how society responds to grief, fostering compassion, equity, and connection when it matters most.
It was wonderful to see my colleague and co-author Dr Yansie Rolston. Together, we produced the first major anthology, Black Grief and Healing, based on our work and activism during COVID. We are now planning the first Black Grief Festival in London and the Midlands in 2026 — so watch this space.
I also enjoyed catching up with Linda Magistris, who has been a true champion for grief and bereavement. I look forward to collaborating with her next year.

A huge thank you to the fantastic team — Lucy Selman, Lesel Dawson, and Dr Kathryn Mannix. I look forward to working with you all in 2026 as we continue this vital venture.