Dying Matters Week - The way we talk about Dying Matters

Saint Francis Hospice is inviting people to attend a free event to encourage the community to get talking about death, dying and grief in the way that works best for them this Dying Matters Awareness Week (6 -12 May 2024). 

The Living Well and Dying Matters event will take place at St Thomas’ Church in St Thomas Road, Brentwood on Friday 10th May from 10 am to 1 pm.  

The hospice has partnered with Home Instead, Bennetts Funeral Directors and solicitors firm Pinney Talfourd to give people the opportunity to find out about local services, as well as activities and information on caring for loved ones, wills, end-of-life care, funerals, holistic services and wellbeing.  

Empowering people to have conversations about death and dying

“The national campaign puts a spotlight on the importance of opening up conversations around death and dying,” said Jan Scott, Transformation Development Manager at Saint Francis Hospice.  

“It is a difficult subject for many people and this year’s theme, The way we talk about dying matters, focuses on the language we use, and conversations we have, around death and dying. 

“We want to empower people to have conversations about death and dying with their healthcare professionals, family and friends because we know that honest and timely discussions about death and dying are so important and help people get the information and support they need, when they need it.  

“These conversations can transform the end of someone’s life and give family and friends clarity over what to expect.” 

There will be free: refreshments, holistic treatments, information sessions and giveaways at the event.  

Lunchtime Live at St Thomas’ begins at 1 pm - a free recital in the church with Trio de Lumiere (flutes and piano). 

Parking is available locally in a multi-storey in William Hunter Way and Chatham Way car parks.  

Follow us on our social media channels 

Throughout the week, we will be helping our community come together to talk about having those end-of-life conversations on our social media channels Facebook, Instagram and X to share tips and advice from hospice staff across the country.