People in the Black Country are being encouraged to break the taboo and talk about death, dying and bereavement ahead of Dying Matters Awareness Week (5-11 May).
Led by Hospice UK, Dying Matters Awareness Week aims to bring people and communities together to create an open culture when it comes to talking about death and grief, and help reduce the associated stress, stigma and social isolation.
The theme for this year, ‘The Culture of Dying Matters’, will focus on how different communities and cultures in the UK feel, talk about, and deal with death and dying – and what brings them together.
Dr Fran Hakkak, Medical Director at Compton Care and Clinical Lead for Palliative Care in Wolverhampton, said: “Every year, Dying Matters Awareness Week helps to encourage all communities to get talking about death and dying in whatever way works for them.
“This year, the campaign focuses on the how religious and cultural beliefs shape our views on death and dying and what unites us. Compton Care colleagues will be out in the community, finding out what matters most to the people in the communities we serve, and offering expert advice on how to start these important conversations.
“Talking about death can feel uncomfortable, but it’s a conversation that can bring immense comfort, clarity, and connection. By opening up these discussions, we empower individuals and families to express their wishes, plan ahead, and ultimately approach the end of life with dignity and understanding, ensuring their wishes are met.”
To help tackle the stigma and open up conversations about grief and death, a range of events will be taking place across the Black Country throughout the week. You can find more information about the events online here.
A number of events are also being hosted by Compton Care throughout the week. More details can be found on the Compton Care website.
Sally Roberts, Chief Nursing Officer for the NHS Black Country ICB, said: “Preparing for the end of life is just as important as planning for any other stage of care. We have a responsibility to create space for honest, compassionate conversations around death and dying — not just in clinical settings, but within our communities too.
“Dying Matters Awareness Week plays a crucial role in breaking down stigma and helping people access the emotional and practical support they need.
“By listening to people’s experiences and encouraging open dialogue, we can build a more understanding, person-centred approach to end-of-life care across the Black Country.”
