As a Hospice, we believe everyone in our communities should have support, dignity and choice when facing dying, death and grief.

We are keen advocates for talking about all aspects of dying, death and grief, and will once again be supporting Dying Matters Awareness Week, which this year runs from May 5-11.

This year’s theme, ‘The way we talk about Dying Matters’, focuses on the language that we use, and conversations we have, around death and dying – specifically between healthcare professionals and patients, their carers and their families.

Open and timely discussions regarding death and dying are crucial for providing quality end-of-life care.

However, obstacles such as uncertainty and societal taboos surrounding death discussions, and ambiguity about who should initiate these conversations may prevent patients, cares, and families from understanding the situation fully or accessing necessary information and support.

We’ll be using the week to provide guidance on initiating conversations about death and dying to help people feel informed, supported, and empowered.

On Tuesday, 7 May, in the afternoon, the Hospice’s Hardwick Lane site will host an awareness stall.

We’ll be encouraging fellow healthcare professionals and the general public to come and speak to us.

Additionally, we will offer tours of our Hospice to give people a closer look at the compassionate care environment we provide.

On May 10, members of our Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy and Community Nursing Teams will be at our Haverhill Hub, in Camps Road Haverhill from 1-4pm in the Haven Cafe.

You can find out more about Dying Matters Awareness Week and some resources by clicking here.