ABSCo was formed at an Inaugural Conference in 2003 following the recommendations of a working party. This working party identified the need for, and recommended the creation of, a network for support and information for people who coordinate and manage bereavement support services within hospices and palliative care settings, for both adults and children.

ABSCo is formed from an executive committee of: Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer and Secretary, and representatives for the 7 designated regions across the United Kingdom. The association is supported by a paid Administrator.

The Association was originally formally adopted under the Governance of Help The Hospice from 2010-2013, but is now a stand-alone members organisation.

As one of the founding members of the National Bereavement Alliance, ABSCo works at all levels to raise public awareness of bereavement issues, and to provide a network of support to those working in the bereavement field in Hospice and Palliative care settings nationwide.