Talking about death is often seen as taboo but Leicester College health and social care students are being encouraged to do just that as part of national Dying Matters Week (14-20 May).
The students were visited by staff from LOROS hospice who encouraged them to think about how they would like their lives celebrated.
“Talking about death doesn’t bring it closer, but it does help young people start to see it as part of everyone’s existence,” said Abi Wattam, Youth Engagement Coordinator at LOROS.
“Dying Matters Week is the perfect opportunity to introduce it in a light hearted way – the students came up with some really imaginative funeral ideas and bucket list plans, from swimming with sharks to riding an elephant!”
Chloe, 17, said, “I’ve decided I’d want to be buried with my cuddly Teletubby, Po, because I’ve had him since I was little. I’d want everyone really dressed up in expensive clothes too for my funeral – they’d need to really make an effort!”
Rishani, 17, said, “I would have lots of pizza and McDonalds to eat at my wake, with chocolate and banana milkshakes. I’d also write and record my own eulogy and have it played at my funeral, so I could talk about myself and say lots of nice things!”
As well as kick-starting frank discussions with young people, LOROS Hospice is holding ‘Dying to Talk’ drop in sessions for the general public to talk about death and end of life wishes. The drop in sessions are free and will be held on:
Thursday 17th May - Market Square in Hinckley Friday 18th May - Humberstone Gate in Leicester City Centre
A free, reusable, goody bag will be given to the first 50 people that drop-in to our Dying to Talk sessions each day.
To find out more visit loros.co.uk/DyingMatters2018/
