Background London is the most religiously diverse place in England (Office for National Statistics. Religion by age and sex, England and Wales: Census 2021), however, 35% of people said they followed ‘no religion’ in the 2021 census (Humanists UK, 2022). Before December 2022 the hospice’s only annual event for bereaved relatives was ‘Light up a Life’ which included Christmas-themed elements including a carol service in a nearby church. A key strategic objective of the hospice is ‘to be the hospice of choice for all of its diverse communities’.

Aim To update existing events and introduce additional events, providing opportunities for bereaved families of all faiths and none to come together year-round.

Method We launched a Summer Solstice Remembrance evening. Bereaved people could write remembrance messages on coloured-ribbon hung from a sculpture in the hospice gardens. The event included poetry, readings, music and the names of those being remembered were read out. We launched ‘Time to Remember’. Led by our Spiritual Care Lead, these regular events bring together bereaved people including children to mark the recent death of a loved one. This is a short reflection service including readings and music. People can light a candle, receive a physical token, and hear the name of the person who has died read out. We separated ‘Light up a Life’ from the church service, running the events a week apart. ‘Light up a Life’ included a secular service, offering new ways for bereaved people to engage – including writing dedications, lighting candles and writing in the memory book.

Results Summer Solstice 2023: 170 attended, 200 ribbon tributes made.

Light Up a Life 2023: 100 attended.

Time to Remember attendees: 22.

Christmas carol service 2023: 300 attendees.

Conclusion New events and separating Christmas celebrations from bereavement events have provided meaningful opportunities for individuals of all faiths and none to come together in memory of their loved ones throughout the year.