Grief is universal. By 20, 63% of people have attended a funeral, often mourning a grandparent, parent, or close relative. And yet, most workplaces lack the skills or policies to support those navigating bereavement. Instead, many remain stuck in a 1950s “stiff upper lip” mindset—take a few days off, then act like everything’s fine.

This isn’t good enough. Our research revealed 55% of people don’t know their bereavement rights, 73% avoid talking about death at work, and many don’t realise employers aren’t legally required to provide paid leave (except for the loss of a child).

It’s time for change.

The Grief Project is here to overhaul how workplaces support bereavement—because no one should face loss alone.

Here’s what we’re offering:

• Up to 2 weeks of paid compassionate leave after the death of a close loved one to be taken at any time in the first year, plus 5 additional paid days over the next 24 months.
• Culturally inclusive support, because grief isn’t one-size-fits-all.
• Death admin assistance, to ease the burden.
• Empathy training with NABS, equipping managers to lead with care.

This isn’t just a policy—it’s a movement.

We’re sharing it openly so others can adapt, improve, and join us in creating workplaces where grief is met with understanding and compassion—not as an afterthought. Together, we can set a new standard.

Download the policy here