Healthcare Organisations in Essex Call on the Community to Talk About Dying

South Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (SEPT) has joined forces with Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust and local healthcare organisations to speak out about Dying Matters during a special awareness week in Essex.

A patient panel conference entitled ‘Facing the Challenges’ is being held at Harlow Leisure Zone as part of the Dying Matters Awareness Week, from 9-15 May 2016.

The theme of Dying Matters Awareness Week 2016 is “The Big Conversation” encouraging individuals and organisations to talk openly about dying, death and bereavement and take simple steps that can make a big difference to people when they are dying or bereaved.

The event organised by the Dying Matters Coalition, aims to tackle the taboos and dismiss the myths about dying in a calm, relaxing and friendly environment, supported by experts in the field.

The Conference takes place on Wednesday 11 May between 10:30-15:00 at the Harlow Health Resource Centre (situated on the first floor at Harlow Leisurezone), Second Avenue, Harlow, Essex, CM20 3DT.

The programme includes a presentation by Clare Henry (Chief Executive, National Council for Palliative Care) Andy Morris (Chief Medical Officer Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust) and Tracy Reed, Education Facilitator for End of Life Care, SEPT.

The event is for individuals, patients, families, carers and employees in health, social, voluntary and independent care sectors. Members of the public and voluntary sector can attend for free, whist there is a small cost of £10 for statutory and private sector for refreshments and parking.

To reserve a place, email patient.panel@pah.nhs.uk or call John Woods on 0758 5401314.

Tracy Reed, SEPT’s Facilitator for End of Life Care Says “Death is still a taboo which is why we are encouraging people to talk about their wishes towards the end of their lives.

“Whether it is through sharing their wishes with someone close to them, registering to become an organ donor, writing a will, considering taking out a funeral plan or making an effort to speak to someone who has been recently bereaved, everyone can take small actions that make a real difference.

“Our aim is to make a ‘good death’ the norm and for people to live well to die well. This includes talking to loved ones about where they want to be cared for die and their funeral plans.

“SEPT is one of 32,000 members of the national Dying Matters Coalition, with an interest in supporting changing knowledge, attitudes and behaviours towards dying, death and bereavement.”