A charity hopes a new initiative will “break the silence” surrounding grief.

The inaugural grief and loss awareness day, organised by the Gina Spence Programme, will take place at City Hall on Friday.

Mykiee Jones, the charity’s chief operating officer, explained: “Whether it’s the loss of a pet, a job or a life-changing experience, grief comes in many forms, as there are over 40 difference types of losses one can experience in a lifetime.”

She added: “This day will not only recognise grief, it will also provide resources, support and a sense of community to help those who are grieving.

“We believe happiness and grief can coexist; our goal is to create a culture where people feel seen, supported and heard.”

Ms Jones said Bermuda experienced shared grief during the 2020 coronavirus lockdown.

She explained: “Each of us lost our autonomy, the ability to decide and actually go to the store on a day that we wish — we all lost a sense of safety.

“We have done fairly well but there are many people that have not acknowledged or identified that it is grief.”

The event will be held from noon to 2pm and will feature free counselling, a proclamation and entertainment.

Gina Spence-Virgil, founder and chief executive of GSP, which assists children and families affected by gun violence through its Champions Programme, noted that people were more open to receiving help than they were years ago.

She explained: “Not only have we been able to tell people our stories, but people see that we have come through.

“They can understand that it may be a little different and a little taboo but people want be healed and rid themselves of the pain, they don’t want to continue to suffer in silence.”

Ms Jones encouraged people to wear orange on Friday to raise awareness about grief and donate funds for GSP’s counselling services.

She said: “Orange is our colour and as we are hosting and leading this very first special day, it is most fitting that one would wear orange.

“Orange is also bright and vibrant, it gives and speaks light and that’s what we endeavour to do on that day and for many years to come.”

The grub day fundraiser is $3 for children and $5 for adults, but people can attend the event without donating.

• People can share the event on social media using #BGLAD2025 and @GSPCharity, and visit gspcharity.com to donate