A special lantern walk in Bexleyheath will remember loved ones lost to suicide and raise funds for a charity that supports bereaved families. The event, called Lights for Loved Ones, takes place on Saturday, November 21, marking International Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide Loss Day.
Event details and purpose
The walk is organised by Cathy Devincenzi, who lost her father to suicide 23 years ago. She hopes to raise awareness and vital funds for Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SoBS), a charity that supported her family after her father's death. SoBS provides support to people bereaved by suicide, helping them navigate grief and connect with others who have experienced similar losses.
The event will begin at The Wellbeing Within Space in Lion Road, Bexleyheath, at 5.30pm. Participants will take part in a peaceful, guided 2km lantern walk around Bexleyheath, carrying LED lanterns in memory of loved ones. The walk is described as accessible and open to adults, families and children.
Remembrance gathering after the walk
Following the walk, attendees will return to the venue for a remembrance gathering. The evening will include readings, personal dedications, gentle music performed by a live singer and refreshments. Attendees can share memories of loved ones or simply listen and reflect in a supportive environment.
Cathy is organising the event in memory of her father and to give back to the charity that helped her family through their bereavement. She will also complete a sponsored lantern walk to raise additional funds for SoBS. Other participants are welcome to create their own fundraising pages and seek sponsorship, though there is no expectation to take part in additional fundraising.
How to attend
Lights for Loved Ones will take place from 5.30pm until 8pm at The Wellbeing Within Space, 59 Lion Road, Bexleyheath, DA6 8NW. Those wishing to attend are asked to reserve an LED lantern ahead of the event. Adult lanterns are available for a suggested donation of £12, while children's lanterns have a suggested donation of £6.
Donations can be made through the event's JustGiving page. After donating, supporters will receive a thank-you message containing a link to the registration form, allowing them to reserve lanterns, submit dedications and receive further information. Anyone unable to attend can also support the fundraiser by making a donation. For further information, contact organiser Cathy Devincenzi at cathy.devincenzi@uksobs.org.
