Talking about death

Having conversations with your family and friends about what you'd like to happen after you die can often help you and your loved ones to cope better - emotionally, practically and financially - when the time comes.

Below are some helpful resources on things to consider before you die, how to support the bereaved and more.

Let's talk about dying

Talking about death can be difficult as it still feels a bit of a taboo. We don't want to upset anyone by talking about it, or come across as gloomy, but it's important to express your wishes. Breaking those barriers and talking about the inevitable can help both you and your loved ones.

Read how to get the conversation started and what you might need to talk about in this document.

Things to do before you die

None of us want to think about getting ill and dying, but having a plan makes it easier for you and your loved ones when the time comes.

From making a will to deciding what kind of care you'd like, setting out your wishes and talking to your loved ones about them will give peace of mind for you and those close to you.

Check out this document which covers a few things to think about.

Supporting the bereaved

It can be difficult to know what to say or do when someone you know has lost someone. We want to offer support, but it can be hard to know what to say for fear of saying the wrong thing. Sometimes we can find ourselves saying nothing, or avoiding the person, thinking it's best to give them space. People who have lost a loved one need lots of support - even if it doesn't seem that way.

Read some advice from our Funeral Director Anna Robinson on how you can support someone who's bereaved.

This document also has some useful dos and don'ts about how to help.

Talking about dying with children

As much as we want to protect children from death, they're going to encounter it at some point. Whether it's their pet rabbit or a grandparent dying, at an early age they can form their own beliefs around it.

It's important to talk to children about it so that the myths don't take over, and so that they don't feel isolated or guilty about what they think.

Find some tips on how to start those conversations in this document.

Talking about dying with people affected by dementia

It can be hard to talk about dying, but it can even harder if you are supporting someone with dementia.

This document is designed to help you with those conversations and get you talking and planning with the ones you love.

We're here for you

Whether you'd like to learn more about recording your wishes with a funeral plan, would like some help organising a funeral, or are looking for further support, our team of funeral directors are here for you throughout the whole process.

Find your nearest funeral home and talk to our team today.