Talk about death at coffee mornings

People are being encouraged to talk about dying at a series of coffee mornings in funeral homes.

Lincolnshire Co-op is holding a series of events as part of Dying Matters Awareness Week, from May 18 to 24, which aims to raise issues surrounding the end of life.
The theme, “Talk, Plan, Live”, highlights that we only get one chance to have our dying wishes met, which is why it’s vital to talk about and make arrangements for the end of life – before it’s too late.
By holding open days at its funeral homes, Lincolnshire Co-op aims to encourage people and their families to look around, ask the team of highly trained staff any questions they may have and find out more about the range of services available from woodland burials to eco-coffins.
Lincolnshire Co-op’s Head of Funeral Services David Dernley said: “Death is something that affects us all but many people still feel uncomfortable talking about end of life issues.
“Visiting their local funeral home can help people become more confident in talking about dying and planning for the future.
“This could help ensure that our loved ones know what to do and our wishes are met at the end of our lives.”
Part of the Dying Matters campaign is to encourage people to take five simple steps to make their end of life experience better, both for them and for their loved ones. These are:

• Write a will
• Record their funeral wishes
• Plan future care and support
• Consider registering as an organ donor
• Tell loved ones their wishes

Jacqui Johnson, partner and private client specialist at Bridge McFarland Solicitors, said: “Only by making a will can you be absolutely certain that your affairs will be dealt with as you would wish.
“This is especially important if you have property or other valuable assets, and even more so if you have dependent children.
“Most people think that everything will automatically go to their partner or next of kin should the worst happen and unfortunately it is not always that simple.
“A will drawn up by a legal professional can cost as little as £240 for a couple.
“A typical estate these days can be worth tens of thousands of pounds so it’s a small price to pay to ensure your assets get to your loved ones in as quick and stress free a manner as possible.”
Lincolnshire Co-op’s funeral homes will hold coffee mornings from 10am until noon at Spalding Funeral Service, St John’s Road, on Tuesday, May 19, Holbeach Funeral Service in Church Street on Thursday, May 21 and Long Sutton Funeral Service in West Street on Friday. May 22.