Messages of support from leading figures mark ten years of AtaLoss and the launch of Bereavement Matters

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Author: Deborah Auty

Date: 2nd November, 2026

Overview: AtaLoss is deeply honoured to have received messages of support from the King, the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Speaker of the House of Commons.


AtaLoss is deeply honoured to have received a letter from the Royal Household on behalf of His Majesty The King, a video message from their Patron, Dame Sarah Mullally, Archbishop of Canterbury, and a letter of support from the Speaker of the House of Commons as the charity marked its tenth anniversary and launched the first Bereavement Matters Season. 

The messages were sent ahead of a special service at St Paul’s Cathedral on 30th October, when over 3,000 people gathered to celebrate the charity’s achievements, remember loved ones who have died and recognise the importance of bereavement support across the UK. 

His Majesty The King 

We received a letter from His Majesty The King’s office conveying his “warmest good wishes to everyone at AtaLoss and all in attendance at the service and reception.” It said “The King is aware of the horrendous sense of loss felt by losing a loved one, and His Majesty wishes to pass on his sincere hopes that the occasion will be most memorable for all involved.”

Dame Sarah Mullally, the Archbishop of Canterbury 

AtaLoss’ Patron, Dame Sarah Mullally, the Archbishop of Canterbury, sent a video message expressing her support for the charity and her hope that Bereavement Matters Season would strengthen how we respond to bereavement. 

The Speaker of the House of Commons 

The Speaker of the House of Commons also sent a letter of support to mark the anniversary. 

“Congratulations to everyone at AtaLoss on your tenth anniversary. Over the past decade you have helped many bereaved people find information and support, while bringing greater attention to an experience that touches every family and community. 

I hope Bereavement Matters Season encourages a national conversation about how we respond to grief: in our communities, in the workplace and through the public services on which people rely. This is a matter that reaches across party lines and deserves thoughtful attention. Please accept my best wishes for the anniversary and for the season ahead.” 

Yvonne Tulloch, Founder and CEO of AtaLoss, said: 

“We are deeply grateful for these messages of support as we mark ten years of AtaLoss. Bereavement touches every family, yet too many people struggle without the understanding or help they need. This recognition sends an encouraging message that their grief matters. 

“Through Bereavement Matters Season, we hope to turn that recognition into action, helping more people find support and encouraging funding to increase capacity for AtaLoss’ work and the sector services bereaved people rely on.” 

Bereavement Matters Season brings together remembering and awareness activities throughout November and December. It aims to raise awareness of the impact of bereavement and help people find support. This inaugural season is focusing on signposting to AtaLoss.org for timely, all-round support, and highlighting the need for sustainable funding for bereavement services. 

Individuals, workplaces, schools, communities and faith groups are invited to get involved in Bereavement Matters Season and share AtaLoss.org to ensure all bereaved people can find help.

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AtaLoss is a UK wide charity helping bereaved people find support and wellbeing by raising awareness about the impact of bereavement; directing to help through the signposting website ataloss.org; and equipping community support, including training for organisations and The Bereavement Journey® peer support programme.  

Yvonne Tulloch, AtaLoss CEO and Founder, is available for interview by prior arrangement. 

Media interviews can be arranged by WhatsApp message to Adam May on 07736 949 869 or by emailing press@ataloss.org.

 

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AtaLoss’ 10 years' celebration and launch of Bereavement Matters Season attracts numbers filling St Paul’s Cathedral