Chatting about death and funeral arrangements is rarely a topic of conversation that’s brought up over a cup of tea.
However during Dying Matters Awareness Week (18-24 May) people are being encouraged to open up and share their final wishes during the Talk, Plan, Live week.
Croydon Council and the Croydon Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) are hosting a range of events this week to get people talking with a five-step program.
“Difficult as it may be, however, it’s important that the wishes of the individual are discussed and set out so that relatives and friends understand what’s wanted,” explained Councillor Louisa Woodley, Croydon Council’s cabinet member for people and communities.
The program encourages people to take five simple steps to make their end-of-life experience better for themselves and their loved ones.
The steps include writing a will, recording funeral wishes, planning future care and support, considering registering as an organ donor and sharing wishes with loved ones.
Dr Camilla Chambers, NHS Croydon CCG’s clinical lead for end-of-life care and GP, said: “It is important that we plan and share our wishes with those closest to us to ensure that we get the care and support we want at the end of our lives.”
Publicity stands will be on display hospitals, in council buildings and CCG rest areas.
Research has revealed that there is a major mismatch between people’s preferences for where they would like to die and their actual place of death.
Approximately 70% of people revealed they would prefer to die at home but about half of them currently die in hospital.
For further information on the Dying Matters Coalition or events call 08000 214466, or visit www.dyingmatters.org.
For further information regarding Croydon’s end-of-life care plans, contact project lead Synthia Abankwa at cynthia.abankwa@croydonccg.nhs.uk.
Picture courtesy of Sam Caplat, with thanks
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