Supporting Individuals Bereaved by Suicide – An exhibition of personal narratives from the South East London Suicide Bereavement Service
Mind in Bexley is proud to announce the launch of an impactful exhibition titled “Supporting Individuals Bereaved by Suicide,” commencing on Tuesday January 28, at the Civic Offices of the London Borough of Bexley.

The front page of the accompanying booklet available at the exhibition
This exhibition presents personal narratives from individuals affected by suicide, offering a profound exploration of grief, resilience and healing.
Through an engaging audio-visual format, the exhibition highlights the diverse experiences of those bereaved by suicide, revealing the complexity of grief and the vital role of emotional support. It emphasises the importance of community connections in navigating the bereavement process.
Operational since July 2021, the South East London Suicide Bereavement Service provides comprehensive support designed to meet the unique needs of those bereaved by suicide.
Dr. David Palmer (Chief Executive of Mind in Bexley) and author of the study remarked: “The stories shared by participants illuminate the varied realities of grief, and highlight the urgent need for supportive dialogue. Many expressed feeling less isolated and more connected to others who understand their experiences. Their narratives are crucial in fostering empathy and community engagement. This initiative not only facilitates collective mourning and remembrance but also enhances the support available to bereaved individuals, ultimately strengthening the community’s resilience against mental health challenges.”
Shanie Dengate (Public Health Strategist for London Borough of Bexley) said: “Bereavement support is part of our approach through the Bexley Suicide Prevention Partnership to prevent suicide and support those affected when someone tragically takes their own life. We are delighted to host the exhibition at the council so that staff and visitors can see the impact the service has made in Bexley and more broadly across South East London.”
This exhibition is aligned with the objectives and suicide prevention strategies of the South East London Integrated Care Board and local authorities, addressing the critical demand for tailored support services in mental health policies surrounding suicide bereavement. By highlighting individual accounts, it seeks to promote understanding, compassion and communal involvement in the healing journey.
Visitors will have the opportunity to engage with these powerful narratives, fostering opportunities for discussions about grief, stigma, and mental health. The event aims to not only highlight the support and impact of the Bereavement Support Project but also enhance awareness and challenge societal misconceptions surrounding suicide.

A staff member previewing the exhibition display
Please join us in honouring the memories of those lost and supporting the healing journeys of those left behind.
For further information about the exhibition, please contact Dr. David Palmer at: dpalmer@mindinbexley.org.uk
Funded by the South East London Integrated Care System, the Suicide Bereavement Service is a partnership between Mind in Bexley, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust and South East London Mind. The Service offers counselling, support groups, and community education initiatives to ensure compassionate care for individuals during their healing process.
To access the South East London Suicide Bereavement Service, please either email: suicidebereavement@selmind.org.uk or call 07933 393 397. The service website address is: slam.nhs.uk/suicide-bereavement-service