News

What to write in holiday cards to someone who is grieving

13 December 2023
What to write in holiday cards to someone who is grieving
image description

It can be hard to see friends, loved ones or colleagues grieving, and there's no perfect way to make it better. We can't bring back the person who has died.

Still, it's important not to ignore their pain. Just letting them know you're there and offering support can be a good starting point.

Our Compassionate Employers team share some examples of what to say in holiday cards to someone who is grieving.

 

Bookmark this page to read later

What's on this page

Top tips: what to say in a holiday card

  1. If you know details, like the person's name, it's nice to include.
  2. Choose a card that feels right; sometimes a simple festive one works best.
  3. If you're unsure what to write, just imagine what you'd say to them and write that down.
  4. Test out a few versions on a scrap of paper if you need to.
  5. If you're unsure, saying something is better than saying nothing. Your colleague will appreciate that you remembered.

Example 1

"I’ve been thinking about how different this Christmas might feel for you without John around.

"If there's anything I can do to ease your workload or support you during this time, please don't hesitate to let me know.

"Sending loads of love to you and your family."

Example 2

"We're all thinking of you as you go through your first holiday without your beloved mum.

"Do lean on us for support. We're all here to support you however we can during this time."

Example 3

"Wishing comfort to you and your partner as you face your first Christmas without your baby.

"I'm so sorry for your loss.

"My thoughts are with you, and if there's anything we can do to make this time a little easier, please let us know. Take care of yourself."

Example 4

"You'd be very welcome to pop over to ours for the day - or we could pick up the kids and take them off your hands for an afternoon?

"I'm reminded of your Mum every time I see a Christmas jumper - and how much she loved wearing them and having a little dance."

Related stories

Explore our resources on seasonal grief support, and how our Compassionate Employers team can help support you and your colleagues who are bereaved or have caring responsibilities.

Explore ways to remember loved ones during the holiday season, dealing with grief, and stories of hospice workers putting others before themselves

Seasonal grief support

If you’ve lost someone special, our community is here to help. Explore our resources on remembering loved ones during the holiday season, and tips to deal with grief.
Find out more
While many of us are enjoying quality time with our own families, Karen describes what it’s like for those at a hospice, where incredible care doesn’t stop for the holidays
Dying Matters

'Working in the hospice at Christmas just feels right'

Karen, Chaplain and Spiritual Lead at Weston Hospicecare, has worked at the hospice every Christmas Day for 18 years, giving her time to be with patients and their families.
Find out more
While many of us are enjoying quality time with our own families, Annemarie describes what it’s like for those at a hospice, where incredible care doesn’t stop for the holidays
Dying Matters

'I put my own emotions aside at Christmas'

While many of us are enjoying quality time with our own families, Annemarie describes what it’s like for those at a hospice, where amazing care doesn’t stop for the holidays.
Find out more
Stock photo of a woman having a conversation via her laptop

Compassionate Employers Workplace Support

Compassionate Employers is our workplace bereavement, carer and illness support programme.

Find out more