St Barnabas Hospice seeks to break down the taboo surrounding death and help the local community plan for the end of life
St Barnabas Hospice will be supporting Dying Matters Week with a drop-in session to encourage people to have ‘The Big Conversation’ in Grantham.
The event will be held at their site on Barrowby Road on Tuesday 10th May, from 12pm – 2pm and is free and open to all.
Local residents are encouraged to come along to have open and honest conversations about dying, death and bereavement and to make their wishes known to family and friends.
Mandy Irons, General Manager South for St Barnabas Hospice, said:
“Every minute someone in the UK dies, but many of us still do not feel comfortable talking about dying. It is our aim to provide a safe haven where having these conversations are encouraged and can be explored.
“It is important to remember that you don’t have to be ill or dying to talk about dying or to put plans in place. In fact, in our experience it is better to have these conversations when you are well to avoid making them when it is too late.
“Talking more openly about dying can help you to make the most of life and to better support our loved ones when death has an impact on their lives. Talking openly makes for a healthier and happier community.”
The drop-in session will be attended by representatives from Ringrose Law, Geesons Funeral Directors and St Barnabas Hospice staff who can offer free advice on how to get your end of life plans in place.
Conversations will take place over speciality teas supplied by The Teaspoon Tea Company and freshly made cakes, all free of charge.
Mandy concludes: “Getting the conversation started can sometimes be difficult but we find that once it has started people have very strong opinions. It is important that people communicate their views to ensure their end of life wishes are met.
“We understand that talking about dying may not be easy but we hope that we can support people to have these conversations, not only during Dying Matters Week, but throughout the year.”