Dying Matters Awareness Week will be taking place from 14-20 May, with various events around the country. The aim is to encourage people to talk about their end of life wishes with friends, family and loved ones, including where they want to die and any funeral plans, in order to ensure that their wishes are carried out wherever possible. Health professionals are also being encouraged to talk about this important issue so that they are equipped to support individuals and families in their forward planning. 

The Dying Matters Coalition was set up in 2009 by the National Council for Palliative Care to promote public awareness and positive attitudes towards dying, death and bereavement. The coalition now has 14,000 members, including organisations from across the NHS, voluntary and independent health and care sectors, and has produced a range of helpful publications. For more information go to www.dyingmatters.org