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Dying Matters Week, held annually from May 2 to 6, encourages vital conversations about death, dying, and bereavement. This awareness campaign, spearheaded by Hospice U.K., aims to normalize discussions and make it easier for everyone to plan for end-of-life care. Take time this week to talk, plan, and support those facing loss.
Want to sponsor Dying Matters Week? Learn how
Expected Dying Matters Week Deals
As a cause-driven observance, Dying Matters Week focuses on awareness and support rather than commercial deals. Organizations like Hospice U.K. and Marie Curie lead campaigns to encourage conversations and planning around death, dying, and bereavement. Many local hospices and charities host free workshops, information sessions, and community events to provide resources and guidance. Financial institutions or legal services specializing in estate planning may offer informational webinars or consultations. Support groups for bereavement, such as those run by Cruse Bereavement Support, often highlight their services during this week. We encourage visiting the official Dying Matters website for a full list of events and resources to participate in this crucial conversation.
Platform Guide for Dying Matters Week
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #DyingMattersWeek. Share personal stories or resources on end-of-life planning to foster community discussion.
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Mention @NatlToday and use #DyingMattersWeek. Share facts, statistics, and links to support services to raise awareness and encourage open dialogue.
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #DyingMattersWeek. Professionals in healthcare, social work, and legal fields can share insights on end-of-life care and planning.
Dying Matters Week Hero
Dame Cicely Saunders
History of Dying Matters Week
“From the cradle to the grave” is a well-known phrase we frequently hear, appearing in books, T.V. shows, and movies. However, one issue difficult to resolve or come to terms with is the realization that one day, our life or that of someone we hold dear will reach finality. Usually, the most awkward conversations are the ones that require facing the reality of dying, bereavement, and the finality of death.
Issues surrounding the loss of a loved one and the psychological implications involved should be carefully and sensitively addressed. Organizations such as Hospice U.K., a national charity for end-of-life care, and like-minded others are committed to ensuring that the terminally ill and those close to them feel neutral (if not good) about dying and be content and assured that their loved ones left behind will live comfortably.
The week recognizes organizations such as Hospice U.K. and others like it to spread awareness that talking about dying, death, and bereavement is healthy. Everyone has the right to stay emotionally, mentally, and physically well. Instead of stigmatizing such talks and making others uncomfortable about such matters, social work teams take the initiative to de-stigmatize such discussions. Healthcare systems aren’t usually prepared to deliver end-of-life care and support which makes hospices all the more important. Dying Matters Awareness Week is an initiative that focuses on encouraging dialogue to promote a healthy emotional and mental lifestyle.
Dying Matters Week timeline
The Roman Catholic Church becomes a center of giving care to the wounded, sick and dying in its hospices.
Fredenheim becomes the first dedicated hospice in London to offer beds to dying tuberculosis patients.
Nurse and medical social worker Dame Cicely establishes St Christopher’s Hospice, the first hospice linking expert pain and symptom control, compassionate care, teaching, and clinical research.
The first Dying Matter Awareness Week is celebrated in 2009.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Dying Matters Week
Local businesses can support Dying Matters Week by hosting informational sessions or partnering with local hospices and charities. Healthcare providers, legal firms, and financial advisors can offer free workshops on wills, power of attorney, and advance care planning. Bookstores might feature sections on grief, bereavement, and end-of-life narratives. Community centers can facilitate open forums for discussion, creating safe spaces for people to share experiences and learn. Businesses can also provide resources and links to support organizations, helping to normalize these essential conversations.
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See MoreDying Matters Week FAQs
When is Dying Matters Week?
In 2027, Dying Matters Week will be observed from Sunday, May 2 through Thursday, May 6, 2027. This period encourages communities to engage in crucial conversations about death and bereavement.
How many people are affected by bereavement each year in the UK?
With hundreds of thousands of deaths occurring annually in the UK, the impact of bereavement is widespread. The campaign seeks to ensure that everyone has access to the support and resources needed during such a challenging time.
What is the main goal of Dying Matters Week?
This week-long observance aims to break down the taboo surrounding death, making it easier for individuals to express their wishes, discuss funeral arrangements, and ensure their loved ones are prepared.
What is the difference between palliative care and hospice care?
While both focus on comfort and quality of life, palliative care can begin at diagnosis and run alongside curative treatments. Hospice care is generally for those with a prognosis of six months or less, concentrating solely on comfort and support.
How to Observe Dying Matters Week
Talk about dying matters
Accept that everyone will die sometime and that it is a normal, natural part of life. Yes, it is an irrecoverable loss, but if ignored, it can cause problems for those still alive. So this week, open up about speaking on dying matters.
Plan your death!
No one knows when they will die, but they can choose to die peacefully in the presence of their loved ones. Tell your loved ones how you would want to die if you ever catch a terminal disease. Let them know it is okay and normal to talk about such matters.
Join a bereavement club
By suggesting you join a bereavement club, we are not saying that you join others and mourn over their loss, but be there for the person who has just lost a loved one. Tell them about your experience (if you have had one) and how you dealt with it, and encourage them to talk about their emotions. Only communication and acceptance will alleviate the misery.
5 Facts About Dying Matters Week
It focuses on an uncomfortable reality
Every second person you encounter is uncomfortable when talking about their death.
More than 200 hospices
In the U.K., there are more than 200 hospices to cater to the needs and care of people who are ill or dying.
Not only for the terminally ill
There is a misconception that hospices only give end-of-life care; they also provide care for the ill, wounded, and bereaved.
A broader vision
The goal is not only to spread awareness on breaking the conventional ideas surrounding death but to give the dying person a sense of fulfillment.
The awareness is well received
The tenth anniversary of this awareness week was celebrated in 2019 and received huge acclaim nationally and internationally.
Why Dying Matters Week is Important
It helps break taboos
Generally, people prefer to talk about light-hearted things and avoid topics relating to death. The day encourages discussion on this very issue.
It encourages planning for the future
Talking about dying matters enables a person to prepare themselves and their loved ones. It motivates the idea to leave behind a will for their family while considering the current options available.
A good death is its reward
The day is a reminder that their loved ones will have people to offer them consolation and reassurance. This makes it easier for some to let go and pass away peacefully.
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