Today marks the start of a national campaign to encourage people to be aware and more open about death.
Whilst clients may acknowledge death, it will usually be prompted by the passing of a family member or friend. However, many will underestimate just how dramatic the impact of death can be on their lives, leaving them unsure how to deal with their emotions, let alone with someone’s possessions or property. Having had to experience the death of a loved one, many people wish they’d have thought about the issue sooner.
This is why campaigns such as ‘Dying Matters Awareness Week’ are so important. Death is something which is an inevitable part of life and yet it is rarely a topic of conversation. National awareness campaigns push it to the forefront of people’s minds and encourage them to discuss it in an open way.
As people talk more openly about death, any fear they may have had is alleviated, increasing the likelihood of them wanting to make plans for the future. Their mindset shifts from worry to practicality, meaning they are much more likely to consider the benefits of consolidating their final wishes.
In addition to encouraging discussion around a difficult subject, awareness campaigns also provide an opportunity for professionals to engage with the local and wider community.
This needn’t be on a grand scheme to get people’s attention; a will writing workshop or coffee morning is a good way to encourage people to really consider their future plans in a more relaxed setting.
Dying Awareness Week is running from the 8th – 14th of May 2017.
