New Suicide Bereavement Pop-up Cafés to open in Waterford 

HUGG is to roll out Suicide Bereavement Pop-up Cafés in Waterford this month.

The new initiative will begin in the Deise and also in Kerry.

All services are provided by people with lived experience of suicide loss.

The news comes as McCabes Pharmacy announced a two-year charity partnership with HUGG.

A spokesperson for the pharmacy chain said:

"Guided by its ethos of better health for everybody, McCabes Pharmacy is proud to collaborate with HUGG to champion mental health awareness in the Waterford community. 

"As Ireland's leading community Pharmacy brand, McCabes Pharmacy recognises the profound impact suicide has on individuals, families, and communities across the country and through this partnership will help raise awareness and funds to support the vital services provided by HUGG."

HUGG was created to ensure that no one bereaved by suicide would have to face their grief alone.

It was founded in 2017 by Fiona Tuomey after the devastating death by suicide of her 11-year-old daughter Milly.

HUGG’s services include a telephone support line, suicide bereavement support groups, information on grief after suicide, and ongoing research and advocacy.

They also host public events and webinars, including its annual remembrance event, Say Their Name and Finding Hope & Healing After Suicide.

CEO of HUGG, Fiona Tuomey added: "We are delighted to be chosen as charity partner of McCabes Pharmacy and look forward to working across the organisation to further HUGG's vision of bringing hope and a pathway to healing for people who are bereaved by suicide. 

"Suicide grief is different to other types of losses and needs unique support. We hope that through this partnership we can reach more people around Ireland who are in need of support."

There are around With around 500 deaths by suicide recorded in Ireland each year—and research showing that every suicide can impact up to 135 people.

That means there are more than 60,000 individuals who may be affected annually and in need of postvention support.

Postvention refers to activities that reduce risk and promote healing for those impacted by suicide.

Managing Director, McCabes Pharmacy Jan-Pieter Hallema said McCabes Pharmacy is proud to support HUGG.

“With 110 pharmacies nationwide, McCabes Pharmacy is uniquely placed to help bring HUGG's message into the heart of our communities across cross Ireland, and helping more people find the support they need around suicide bereavement,” said Mr Hallema.

Further information on HUGG and the support they provide can be found at www.HUGG.ie.