Dying Matters Awareness Week

Greenwich & Bexley Community Hospice is supporting Dying Matters Awareness Week which runs between 2-6 May. This year’s theme is being in the good place to die, but what does that mean?

Being in a good place to die is not just about being in the physical place of your choice, it means that you are emotionally, spiritually and psychologically prepared for your death. This can be achieved by thinking about it, planning for it and talking about it to your loved ones. There’s no right or wrong and it will be different for everyone.

Right now, we know that people are dying without the support they need. And we know that it’s by talking, and by sharing stories, that we can remove the taboo and stigma that surround these topics.

Dying Matters Awareness Week is our chance to get talking, to share stories, and to call for end of life care for all.

Planning for end of life

Planning for end of life can be such a difficult subject to approach. But it’s so important to let people know what matters to you and what you would like to happen following your death. And once you’ve had the conversation and your wishes are known, then there is no need to revisit it. It won’t make the inevitable happen any sooner, but it will make the journey easier for those who will be left behind.

Here are some things you can do to start the conversation:

  • Write your Will
  • Tell your family what’s important to you. Would you like to leave a donation to your favourite charity? What do you want your funeral to look like?
  • Make practical plans. Who will look after any dependents, or your beloved pets? Are there friends or loved one abroad who you would like to visit, while you can?
  • Prepare your urgent care plan and make sure your wishes and care preferences are heard by healthcare professionals, if you need urgent care.

Start the conversation today. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

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