A NEW monthly breakfast club for those who have lost a loved one in the Forth Valley area is being launched later this week in a bid to tackle loneliness.

In what’s believed to be the first breakfast club of its kind organised by NHS Forth Valley, people who have lost a loved one are being invited to meet for a breakfast roll with tea or coffee at Falkirk Golf Club.

Arranged by NHS Forth Valley’s bereavement service, the bereavement breakfast club will run initially for three months and is open to all ages.

The club will run on an informal basis where visitors can pop in and sit at any table and choose whether to chat with others or simply sit and listen.

Sheena McCorrie, NHS Forth Valley bereavement service co-ordinator, said: “Often taking the first step to come to a club like this can appear daunting.

"But we believe it will provide a great opportunity to share the burden with others who may be going through a similar experience.

“Loneliness is very much a 21st century problem and after losing a loved one people often feel alone and don’t know where to turn to.

"We are hoping to provide a shoulder for them to lean on.”

The club will also be able to signpost people to additional services if they feel in need of extra support.

The organisers say it is appreciated that everyone has a different grieving journey and men and women are welcome to bring a friend.

The club will meet on the first Friday of every month from 10am to 12 noon starting on Friday, October 4, before meeting again on Friday, November 1, and Friday, December 6, at Falkirk Golf Club, Stirling Road, Camelon.

Anyone wishing to attend or find out more can call 01324 614307 or email: FV-UHB.bereavementservice@nhs.net