A newly designed pin aimed at encouraging society to acknowledge grief and support bereaved people has been unveiled by the Irish Hospice Foundation.
The pin, which was designed by Irish jewellery designer, Alan Ardiff, is being distributed through bereavement groups of hospices free of charge, and can be bought by members of the public for €20 from the IHF and the Kilkenny Shop in Dublin’s Nassau Street. All money from the sale of the pin will go the IHF, and profits will be used to develop bereavement services in Ireland.
The silver and black patina pin uses symbols of love, strength and community, including a circle to represent the circle of life; a heart at its centre to indicate loss and a connection to loved ones; and 12 dots around the circle to represent time, or the support of family, friends and neighbours.
Designer Alan Ardiff said recent years had seen a resurgence in old traditions surrounding bereavement, including symbols such as the wearing of ribbons for illnesses such as breast cancer.
"A visual symbol of loss is important for many bereaved people," he said.
Unveiling the pin today, broadcaster Pat Kenny, whose mother died last year, said each bereaved person's loss was unique.
“Grief is a journey along an unknown road with few signposts to guide us," he said. "Many of Ireland’s old traditions had a purpose. This bereavement pin is a modern twist on the tradition of highlighting a loss. It can be used as a reminder to ourselves and others that we are grieving. Even openly acknowledging the loss by wearing the pin may help people to feel less isolated.”
According to the IHF, about 30,000 people die each year in Ireland, with at least 10 people affected by each death.
Bereavement services manager with the IHF Dr Susan Delaney said the loss of a loved one affected everyone personally, but also had repercussions in the workplace, the economy and society, and it was important that society understand the effects of bereavement and offer support.
