An initiative has launched to strengthen grief supports for Nova Scotians.

The Nova Scotia Grief Alliance is a hub for individuals, health professionals and community organizations helping people dealing with loss. Goals include raising awareness, networking, and promoting best practices.

Co-led by Nova Scotia Health and the Nova Scotia Hospice Palliative Care Association, it was developed with the support of the Public Health Agency of Canada and the province.

While the NSGA does not offer counselling services, it allows those working in grief support to share information and effective approaches plus identify community needs.

The new grief alliance offers events including virtual education, regional roundtables and a province-wide symposium.

“Working to ensure no one has to deal with loss alone”

In a statement, executive director of the Nova Scotia Hospice Palliative Care Association Tim Guest says, “Grief is a deeply personal and often complex experience. This initiative prioritizes compassionate, grief-informed care and expands access to vital resources. Together, we are working to ensure no one has to experience loss alone and that grief supports continue to improve for all Nova Scotians.”

Director of policy and planning for grief and bereavement with Nova Scotia Health’s Palliative Care Network Lindsay Sutherland says, “This partnership is a meaningful step forward in strengthening community-based approaches to grief across Nova Scotia and normalizing grief as a human experience.

Sutherland adds, “Our community partners have always played a key role in building compassionate communities, where those living with loss feel seen, supported, and understood. Through the grief alliance, their voices help shape educational offerings and capacity-building efforts —supporting those who are grieving, and those who care for them.”