Planning ahead? Let’s Talk About can help you do that

While having conversations about death and dying can feel difficult, being able to carry out someone’s funeral in the way they wanted can be a powerful way to honour their memory and a meaningful part of grieving.

Whether it’s your own funeral or that of a loved one you’re thinking about, having these conversations is so important and can help make what is always an incredibly difficult time a little less stressful.

On Thursday, March 14 the Supportive Care Team and I will be hosting our next ‘Let’s Talk About’ session from 11am-12.30pm down at The Long House in Holsworthy.

For those who haven’t attended before, these sessions are open to all and a safe and welcoming space to gain knowledge and understanding about topics important to you and your family at what can be a confusing time.

They are an opportunity to raise questions, as well as promote discussion with specialists in the subject.

Next month’s session will focus specifically on funeral planning and the different things you might need to consider when organising that final farewell.

If you’re looking for some guidance on this but don’t know where to start, we’d love you to come along and be part of what promises to be a truly insightful session.

After welcoming you with a warm cuppa and tasty refreshments, we’ll begin by giving advice on how to get those sensitive yet vital conversations going with the people you love before discussing the more practical aspects of funerals and why they’re important.

These might include whether you’re planning a burial or cremation, where the funeral will take place and who you would like to lead the ceremony as well as what music and dress codes might be followed.

Finally, we’ll be hearing from Mark Drummand, manager at North Devon Crematorium and Sue Denham, a local celebrant, who will both be giving advice and offering information about their areas of expertise and answering any questions you may have to help make your funeral planning process as smooth as possible.

Here at the hospice, we know how tough it can be to try and think about funeral plans amidst the chaos of a life-limiting illness.

But by starting those conversations and talking about your wishes or those of the person you’re caring for, we hope you’ll take comfort in knowing that when the time comes, that final goodbye will be as meaningful as possible.

To find out more about our ‘Let’s Talk About’ sessions or book your place on one, please call our Supportive Care Team on 01271 347225 or visit northdevonhospice.org.uk.