Cruse Bereavement Support Isle of Man has been chosen as the charity partner for this year's Media Isle of Man Awards for Excellence.

Organised by the company behind brands such as Isle of Man Today, Gef.im and the Isle of Man Examiner, Courier and Manx Independent, the glittering event takes place on Thursday, November 19, bringing together businesses and individuals from across the island to celebrate their achievements and contributions to Manx life.

Each year, a charity is invited to the event to raise awareness of its work, meet guests and explain the support it provides to the community.

Last year's charity partner was Culture Vannin, which works to preserve and promote Manx culture and make it accessible to everyone.

This year he spotlight will fall on Cruse Bereavement Support Isle of Man.

The independent charity is itself marking 38 years of helping bereaved children, young people and adults across the island.

Chief executive Mary Doyle said Cruse aims to ensure that anyone struggling with the death of a loved one can find support, regardless of the circumstances or how long ago the loss occurred.

Mary said: ‘Grief can be so traumatic for people, so knowing there is somewhere to turn when they need it is very important to the charity.’

Although Cruse receives a grant from the Isle of Man Government, it depends on further grants and donations to sustain its services and keep them available to those who need support.

The charity works with statutory agencies and other organisations to direct people requiring urgent assistance towards appropriate services.

Mary said Cruse was ‘very grateful’ to Media Isle of Man and the Awards for Excellence team for choosing it as this year's charity partner.

Donations raised through the event will help the charity continue supporting island residents through some of the most difficult experiences of their lives.

To find out more about Cruse Bereavement Support Isle of Man or to make a donation, visit cruse.org.im.