It’s one of the things that people generally don’t like to think about – let alone talk about – dying.
Yet it will happen to all of us as well as our friends, families or work colleagues.

This week (8-14 May) is dying matters awareness week and Merton community health services, part of Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust (CLCH), is encouraging local people to talk about death.
“We are asking residents to make a pledge along the lines of what can you do to help support people in the community who may be dying or are bereaved,” said Philip Parker, CLCH Merton’s dementia and end of life care team lead.

“83% of the British population are uncomfortable talking about death and dying, but it’s very important to think about it and at least tell your loved ones what you would like to happen.”
Sally Watkins from the Compass bereavement service will be joining CLCH staff ‘manning’ the stalls at:
• Merton Civic Centre, 10am-2pm, Tuesday 9 May
• The Nelson Health Centre, Kingston Road, 10am-2pm, Thursday 11 May
• Lords Pharmacy, 279 Kingston Road, Merton Park, 10am-2pm, Thursday 11 May
• The Willow Bough tea rooms, 11 Merton Park Parade, 10am-2pm, Thursday 11 May. Bonfluer Florists in Wimbledon is supporting this event by providing flowers.

Information leaflets will be available for people to take away covering subjects such as writing wills, where and how you’d like to be cared for, considering funeral arrangements and organ donation.

Article supplied by Peter Sas