As Grief Encounter approaches its 20th year end, our founder, Dr Shelley Gilbert will be taking a step back from her duties.

Shelley founded Grief Encounter in 2004, leading it to become one of the UK’s foremost not-for-profits for bereaved children, young people and families. Her title going forward will be ‘Lifetime President and Founder’.

It is with no doubt that her legacy will be carried through Grief Encounter’s incredible work.

Dr Gilbert says, “Grief Encounter’s growth coincides with the right time for me personally to change my working patterns and focus more on my family and other interests. I will remain available for consultancy, guidance and help if needed. I am so proud to leave behind the most incredibly sound organisation, as one of the UK’s leading bereaved child, young people and family charities. Having not only raised millions of pounds, but changed the lives of so many grieving children, I leave the charity firmly rooted in the family values of empathy, kindness and compassionate caring. With such strong foundations, I feel reassured that I will see the charity grow from strength to strength. Grief Encounter is, and always will be, in my heart.”