National work to support compassionate communities – learning and reflections from 17 years of work in Scotland

This chapter explores how the Good Life, Good Death, Good Grief (GLGDGG) initiative has worked in various ways to nurture communities in Scotland that support each other with death, dying, loss and care. It summarises key initiatives introduced by GLGDGG including the To Absent Friends Festival; EASE course; Demystifying Death Week; and Bereavement Charter Marks for workplaces and schools. It explores the philosophy and principles underpinning this work, the practicalities and challenges involved and some of the key learning gained from 17 years of work in this area.