What is Dying Matters Week?
Dying Matters Week or Dying Matters Awareness Week is an annual event observed in the United Kingdom, typically held in the first week of May, to encourage open conversation about death, dying, and bereavement. This important week aims to break down the taboos surrounding these topics and help people engage in meaningful discussions about end-of-life care, wills, funeral planning, and what we can do to ensure our final wishes are respected. By promoting these conversations, Dying Matters Week seeks to make it easier for everyone to talk about and prepare for death, ultimately improving end-of-life care and support for those nearing death and their families.
History and Origin
Dying Matters Week was established by the Dying Matters Coalition, launched in 2009 by the National Council for Palliative Care (NCPC) in the UK. The coalition comprises various organizations, including hospices, care providers, charities involved in palliative care, and community organizations. The initiative arose from the recognition that people in the UK were not discussing their wishes for their end of life, leading to unmet needs and challenges in providing appropriate care. The week is now a key part of efforts to change attitudes and behaviors around talking about death and planning for the end.
Who Celebrates Dying Matters Week?
- Healthcare Professionals: Doctors, nurses, and palliative care specialists who provide care at the end of life.
- Hospices and Care Homes: Engage with communities and host events.
- Charities and Non-profits: Focus on bereavement support and palliative care.
- Individuals and Families: Encouraged to discuss and plan for end-of-life wishes.
- Educational Institutions: Hold seminars and discussions to educate students and staff about the importance of these conversations.
Slogans and Themes
Each year, Dying Matters Week has a theme designed to focus the conversations and activities. Themes such as “Are We Ready?” and “Talking About Dying” encourage individuals and organizations to think about and discuss the practical and emotional aspects of preparing for death. The slogans and themes are crafted to make the topic of death more approachable and encourage more open dialogue.
Colors, Symbols, and Patterns
- Colors: Often muted or soothing colors are chosen, such as blues and greens, to convey calm and serenity.
- Symbols: Symbols like leaves, trees, or circles are used to represent life cycles and natural transitions.
- Patterns: Simple, comforting patterns are common in promotional materials to keep the focus on the message.
Most Used Hashtags
- #DyingMatters
- #DyingMattersWeek
- #AreWeReady
- #EndOfLifeCare
- #TalkAboutDeath
How to Celebrate
- Attend Events: Participate in workshops, exhibitions, and talks organized by local hospitals, hospices, and community centers.
- Host Discussions: Organize or attend a discussion at work, in community groups, or at home to talk about end-of-life plans.
- Educational Resources: Utilize resources offered by Dying Matters and other organizations to learn how to bring up these topics.
- Create Awareness: Use social media to share personal stories, informational content, and support resources.
- Volunteer: Offer time at local hospices or community centers to support events and initiatives during the week.
Dying Matters Week is a crucial initiative that helps normalize conversations about death and dying, providing people with the tools they need to discuss and plan for end-of-life. By engaging in this week, we can help ensure that when the time comes, our own wishes and those of our loved ones are respected and fulfilled.