THE way we talk about death and dying matters, says Tynedale Hospice at Home during Dying Matters Awareness Week.

Tynedale Hospice at Home is encouraging the people of Hexham and the Tyne Valley to talk about death, dying and grief in whatever way works for them for Dying Matters Awareness Week, which runs until May 12.

The national campaign by Hospice UK works to open up conversations around death and dying. This year’s theme focuses on the language that we use, and conversations we have, around death and dying.

Tynedale Hospice at Home will use the week to share posts on its social media page offering advice to anyone who would like to understand how they can better support those who are bereaved and grieving with confidence and empathy.

Daisy Maher, family support practitioner at Tynedale Hospice at Home, said: “Many people feel incredibly alone at this time and we’re passionate about helping to break the taboo around discussing death and dying. Many different factors contribute to the taboo such as: lack of confidence, fear of upsetting somebody, saying the wrong thing. Dying, unfortunately, will happen to everyone and it is so important that we are able to have open, honest conversations to be able to best support loved ones at the end of life. Having important conversations enables people to receive the care they want and feel supported and loved.’’ 

Tynedale Hospice at Home offers pre and post bereavement support to anyone dealing with a terminal diagnosis of a loved one. They also offer one to one counselling to people across west Northumberland dealing with bereavements whatever the cause of death. The charity also pro-actively speaks to schools about death and dying in an age-appropriate and sensitive way if required.

Ruby Wroe, senior communications and engagement officer at Hospice UK said: “Honest, timely discussions about death and dying are so important, they can transform the end of someone’s life and give family and friends clarity over what to expect. This Dying Matters Awareness Week, we’re starting conversations about the language we use to talk about death and dying, and why it matters. "