The death of a child or a sibling changes everything. At The Compassionate Friends (TCF), we understand the pain you're carrying. We’re a community of people who have been where you are offering support, connection, and space to grieve, remember, and begin healing.
Whenever you're ready, we are here.
You are not Alone
How can we help you?
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Lay Counselling
Our trained lay counsellors, who are bereaved parents or siblings themselves, offer free one-on-one support to others navigating grief. Sessions are available online or in person at our Highlands North centre in Johannesburg. While not professionally qualified, all lay counsellors receive training and are supported by a qualified supervisor.
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Group Meetings
TCF hosts regular coffee mornings and support meetings run on the second Saturday of every month at our Highlands North centre. These monthly gatherings often include guest speakers or themed discussions, as well as community led topics offering comfort through shared connection with others who understand.
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For the Newly Bereaved
We are so sorry that you have joined us on this journey, but please know you are not alone.Here, you’ll find support, services, and resources to help you begin navigating life after loss at your own pace.
Take your time, and reach out when you’re ready. We are here for you.
Join our Candle Lighting Ceremony
Our annual Candle Lighting Ceremony is a heartfelt gathering where we honour and remember our beloved children, siblings, and grandchildren who have died. As each candle is lit, we create a circle of light that connects us in love, remembrance, and shared hope.
All beraved families, including the younger children are invited to attend.
Wednesday, November 5, 2025
6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
St Columba's Church, Parkview
Sign up to our
newsletter
If you’d like updates, news about support groups and events, and articles that bring comfort and understanding, we invite you to join our mailing list.
Our newsletter is sent out monthly and includes topics for Son, Daughter, Grandchild and Sibling loss.
You can unsubscribe at any time.
How to Support Us
Your support helps us continue offering comfort and connection to grieving families, at no cost to them.
There are four simple ways you can help.
Volunteer
Bereaved parents, siblings, and grandparents can support TCF by volunteering, training as lay counsellors, or sharing their stories to help others and honour their loved ones.
Make a Gift
If you’d like to give directly, your
contribution will help us offer free support groups, counselling, and resources to those who need it most. Every bit of support makes a difference.
My School Card
Link TCF as a beneficiary on your My School/My Supporter card. A portion of your spending at Woolworths will be donated to TCF. If you already have a card, you can add a beneficiary by updating your profile here.
Write an article
Writing brings healing and can inspire those who are on the same journey. Write your own story which can feature on our website and in our newsletter. You don’t have to be a writer, just someone who has a story to share.
Need urgent help?
The Compassionate Friends is not a crisis service. If you are in immediate need of crisis support please contact:
Lifeline South Africa – 0861 322 322
SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group) – 0800 567 567