Littleborough woman creates online safe space for people affected by grief

A Littleborough woman has founded an online safe space for people affected by grief, and hopes to grow it to become an in-person support system.

Zoe Collar-Harrison set up Healing Vibes, a private Facebook group, earlier this year as part of her own healing journey after her dad, Michael Collar, died in 2019.

Initially apprenticeships tutor Zoe invited her friends and family to join, but the group has grown considerably to include others, with a focus on listening, rather than providing solutions.

 

 

Mum of two Zoe – who admits she is not a mental health professional – says the group creates a safe space for people to share their grief for support, with members saying the group has helped and “feels like an old friend.”

She said: “I’m not a qualified mental health professional, but I’ve been through it.

“Whether you’ve lost a job, relocated, or had a relationship breakdown, grief is valid and I didn’t want anyone else to feel how I did. Sometimes people don’t think they’ve had trauma but they don’t realise or they minimise it, or don’t think they want to go through counselling or talking therapies.

“We all support each other; it’s a place to listen and promote wellbeing of and self-love, which is nice to see.”

 

 

Zoe has also approached Action Together about the possibility of evolving the group to offer an in-person support session, and also hopes to bring angelic reiki support as a possibility further down the line – which she is currently undergoing qualifications for.

“I'm approaching 50, so that also gave me a bit of a push. I realise many people don't get this far and I'm so privileged to reach 50. You're never too old to get there and achieve your goals,” she continued, adding that whilst she was not an alcoholic, local support group 'Be Sober' also changed her outlook on life and helped her implement positive changes.

Zoe added: “If I can help one person to not feel how I did, I’ve done what I set out to do. My dad liked to help people, so this is like my tribute to him.”

If you’re interested in joining the group, you will need a Facebook account and request to join:

• www.facebook.com/groups/668972455036876