A practical guide for leaders and HR
Grief and loss are deeply personal experiences, yet they touch all of us. While it might feel easier to separate these emotions from work, the reality is much different. With most people spending at least one-third of their lives at work, it’s impossible to leave behind what makes us human.
Grief is complex, and meeting it—whether in ourselves or others—can feel uncomfortable. But workplaces that turn toward grief, rather than away from it, create environments where people feel seen, supported, and valued.
This free guide empowers leaders, individuals, and workplaces to better respond to grief and loss with care, clarity, and compassion.
Why this guide matters
Grief is personal, but support is a shared responsibility.
Grief and loss don’t follow a timeline, but your support can make all the difference. This guide helps leaders and HR professionals create a workplace where employees feel seen, supported, and safe, no matter what they’re going through.
When workplaces handle grief well, the benefits go beyond the individual. It strengthens teams, builds trust, and shows employees they matter. This guide offers practical ways to:
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Respond to grief with empathy and care
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Communicate clearly and effectively
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Create a workplace where people feel supported
What’s included in the guide?
Practical tools to navigate grief in the workplace
This guide covers 10 key sections, including:
- Your role as a leader: initial and ongoing support
- Building a supportive workplace culture
- Navigating specific situations, like the loss of a colleague or traumatic events
- Recognising red flags and knowing your limits
- Respecting cultural sensitivity and legal considerations
- Case studies and insights, including Canva’s approach to grief support
Who is this guide for?
Whether you’re an experienced leader or new to people management, this guide provides actionable insights to navigate grief in the workplace.
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HR and people & culture teams
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Managers and team leaders
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HSE and safety professionals
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Founders and directors
If you’re responsible for people, this guide is for you.
“Sonder has helped me immensely through the loss of my mum. They have been there to hold my hand, and their empathy towards my situation was so beautiful. It meant the world to have someone there that I could count on through the hardest time of my life. The loss of a family member is the most painful thing I have ever endured. Thankfully, I had Sonder to get me through to the other side, and I still continue to use the app weekly. Thank you, Sonder, you are my guardian angel.”
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