Aim and intended learning outcomes The aim of this article is to promote the exploration of issues related to loss and bereavement from a nursing perspective. The concept of loss and its associated effects will be introduced; bereavement as loss will be identified and responses to loss and bereavement clarified; delivering difficult news as a skilled response will be explained; the impact of working with loss and bereavement will be discussed; and the roles and skills of the nurse in offering effective support will be explored. After reading this article you should be able to: ■Define the concept of loss and its associated categories. ■Identify five factors to consider when delivering difficult news. ■List six potential responses to bereavement. ■Describe three ways in which dealing with bereavement might affect both personal and professional practice. ■Describe the potential roles and skills of the nurse in supporting people after loss and bereavement.