In Episode 1 of The Edward’s Trust Podcast, host Ed Nell speaks with Peter Dent, founder and Vice Chair of Edward’s Trust, about the deeply personal story behind the charity and how the loss of his son Edward inspired a service that has now supported bereaved families for around 40 years. Peter explains the realities of grief, why every person’s experience is different, and how Edward’s Trust has developed a highly individual approach to counselling, wellbeing and bereavement support.

Turning Loss into Something Positive:

After Edward died aged seven, Peter and his family experienced first-hand how little meaningful bereavement support was available. Their experience became the driving force behind Edward’s Trust, initially supporting families with children in hospital before developing professional bereavement services.

Support Should Fit the Person:

One of the founding principles of Edward’s Trust is that there is no fixed timescale for grief. Some people may need only a handful of sessions, while others need support for much longer. The individual comes before the system or process.

Living With Loss, Rather Than ‘Getting Over It’:

Peter explains that bereavement is not about forgetting or moving on from the person who has died. Edward’s Trust helps people find a way of living alongside their loss and rediscovering hope for the future.

Taking the First Step:

Reaching out for support can be incredibly difficult. Peter describes picking up the phone as a significant act of courage, and stresses that anyone contacting Edward’s Trust will be listened to without pressure or expectation.

Creating a Safe and Welcoming Environment:

The surroundings at Edward’s Trust are deliberately designed to feel comfortable and homely. Peter explains that helping people relax and feel safe is an important part of providing effective bereavement support.

The Ongoing Challenge of Funding:

Providing professional counselling and support comes at a considerable cost. Edward’s Trust must raise around half a million pounds each year, relying on fundraisers, businesses, community groups, trusts and individual supporters to continue its work.

Peter’s story captures the heart of Edward’s Trust: hope, trust, integrity and wellbeing, alongside a commitment to treating every bereaved person and family as an individual. After four decades and thousands of families supported, the charity continues to provide a place where people facing unimaginable loss can find understanding, professional support and hope for the future.

About Edward's Trust

Edward’s Trust is a specialist bereavement charity supporting children, young people and adults affected by the death of someone close to them. Founded in 1989 following the death of Edward Dent, the charity has spent decades helping individuals and families through some of the most difficult moments in their lives.

Through counselling, wellbeing support, groups and other specialist services, Edward’s Trust provides a safe and supportive environment where people can talk, process their grief and begin to move forward in a way that is right for them.

Contact Edward's Trust

Website: https://edwardstrust.org.uk/

Bereavement support: 0121 454 1705

Fundraising team: 0121 454 1705

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