Thanks to the generosity and support of Aldermore Bank, The Alder Centre has been able to offer a dedicated Complimentary Therapist role for the past year, providing vital, life-changing support to those navigating grief and loss. This role has made an incredible impact, offering comfort, connection, and healing to families experiencing the pain of grief.
Cheryl, who has been in the position since last July, brings a wealth of experience in holistic therapies, mental health, and wellbeing. With a background in psychology, nutrition, and trauma-informed therapies, Cheryl offers a unique blend of treatments, including acupuncture, reflexology, and massage, tailored to meet the needs of individuals at The Alder Centre.
“You can’t always help people just by talking,” Cheryl explains. “Grief is complicated, and sometimes emotions get stored in the body. People can feel stuck, disconnected, or overwhelmed. Therapeutic touch can help them process those feelings and start to heal in ways they didn’t even realise they needed.”
This service has provided a welcome alternative or complement to traditional counselling, allowing people to choose what feels right for them. “Some people come in and aren’t sure what they need,” Cheryl says. “They might start with reflexology, which is a very gentle therapy, and realise that’s exactly what helps them relax and feel safe. Others might come in feeling completely tense and overwhelmed, and a deep tissue massage or acupuncture session can help release some of that stress. It’s all about giving people the
choice and the space to figure out what works for them.”
Cheryl and her colleague, who share the role, see around 20 clients per week, working closely with the counselling team to ensure a fully integrated support system. Families deeply value the safe, welcoming space Cheryl and her team create. “People have said it feels like a home from home here,” Cheryl shares. “That’s so important, especially when you’re dealing with grief. It’s not just about the therapy itself—it’s about creating an environment where people feel safe, supported, and understood.”
The impact of this role cannot be overstated. Many of the people who come to The Alder
Centre are parents who have lost a child, an experience that turns their world upside
down. Traditional mental health services can sometimes feel too clinical or intimidating, but The Alder Centre, and the therapies Cheryl provides, offer a different kind of
support – one that is deeply personal, nurturing, and grounding.
“Some people come in feeling completely disconnected from their bodies because grief
is so overwhelming,” Cheryl explains. “Their minds are racing, their emotions are all over
the place, and they just don’t feel present. Through therapy, they start to reconnect
with themselves. It’s incredible to see the difference even a few sessions can make.”
The flexibility of the service also allows Cheryl to meet each person where they are. “We’re not here to force anything on anyone,” she says. “Some people aren’t ready to talk yet, and that’s okay. Sometimes, just sitting in the space, having a cup of tea, and receiving a treatment is enough to help them feel even a tiny bit lighter. And for others, it’s the first step towards opening up and engaging with other forms of support”.
The Alder Centre itself plays a huge role in the success of this work. Cheryl describes it as a
truly unique place. “It’s not like working in a hospital or a GP surgery, where everything is rushed. Here, people are given the time they need. There’s no judgment. They can take a moment to breathe, to sit in the garden, or to just be. That makes all the difference.”
“Through it all, The Alder Centre continued to support us. Holistic therapies helped with my physical and emotional well-being. Cheryl, our therapist, helped me manage stress. The support we received allowed us to focus on Benjamin while still honouring Hope’s
memory.
Tim and I have continued receiving support from The Alder Centre. We’ve attended counselling sessions together, benefiting greatly from John, our counsellor. Cheryl’s holistic therapies have also played a major role in my recovery, helping me cope physically and emotionally. Reflexology has helped Tim, who works as a gardener and spends long hours on his feet. The ability to switch off, even for an hour, has been invaluable for both of us.
One of the most significant aspects of The Alder Centre is how it welcomes the entire family. It’s not just about grieving parents – grandparents, like my mother, are included too. She has been hesitant to seek support, but when I had an unexpected schedule change, I brought her along with Benjamin, and the staff welcomed her without hesitation. That kind of understanding and inclusivity is priceless.”
Reflecting on the past few months, Cheryl is struck by just how much of a difference this service has made. “I’ve worked with so many people now – probably over 50 families in the last year. Some of them come regularly, others just drop in when they feel they need it. But every single person who comes through that door is benefiting from this support in some way.”
Looking ahead, Cheryl hopes that services like this can continue to grow and evolve. “There’s still so much more we could do,” she says. “People are always looking for different ways to manage their grief and stress, and the more options we can provide, the better. The fact that we’ve been able to offer this for a year is incredible, but I’d love to see it become a permanent part of the support offered here.”
To everyone at Aldermore Bank – thank you. Your generosity has funded a role that is truly changing lives. You’ve given families a space where they can feel safe, supported, and cared for. You’ve made it possible for people to begin healing in ways they never thought possible. Cheryl and the entire team at The Alder Centre are deeply grateful for your support, and so are the many people whose lives have been touched by
this service.