Reading Supports Dying Matters Week 2018

Dying Matters

READING is marking Dying Matters Week 2018 with a series of events and activities designed to get people talking more openly about death.

Nationally, Dying Matters Week (14th to 20th May) aims to raise public awareness about the importance of talking more openly about dying, death, bereavement and of planning ahead. This year’s theme is ‘What can you do?’ Reading Council is supporting Dying Matters Week locally with a crematorium open morning. Reading Crematorium will open its doors to the public on Wednesday 16th May, with tours starting every 30 minutes, between 9.30am-12pm. Henley Road Crematorium Staff will welcome guests and each tour will commence with and question and answer session, which provides an opportunity for guests to ask questions about burials and cremations, such as what happens after the service. Following a 10 minute talk, guests will be invited to tour the crematorium and its grounds – with a tree trail and a map of notable burials in the cemetery provided. There is a max of 12 people per tour, which is free to attend, although booking is essential. To book visit the Council’s What’s On pages www.reading.gov.uk/whatson or by email to cem.crem@reading.gov.uk

Cllr Rachel Eden, Reading’s Lead Member of Adult Social Care and End of Life Champion, hopes that Dying Matters Week will help break the taboo around the subject of dying. She said:

“None of us likes to think about death, but talking about it won’t make it happen. We can all use Dying Matters week as an opportunity to have important conversations about how we want to end our story. There are many events taking place across the town – please come along and find out what you can do. “We only get one chance to this right. The important message is don’t leave it too late – tell your loved ones about your wishes.” A number of local organisations are working together to support Dying Matters Week this year. Events and activities during the week include: · Absolute Mindfulness: Monday 14th May 11am to 12pm, Eye and Dunsden Hall, Dunsden Green, RG4 9QG. A mindfulness relaxation class to raise money for Dying Matters. Yoga mats and blankets will be provided. Voluntary £5 donation for entry. To book contact absolutemindfulness@gmail.com 07762596735 · Community Matters – Radio Show Tuesday 15th and Friday 18th May 11am to 2pm. Listen on 1386 AM. Radio discussion on the theme of Dying Matters. www.facebook.com/blast1386 · Talk about it over tea: Whitley Social Club & Café, RG2 7QA on 16th May, 12.30pm to 1.30pm. Gather to eat cake, drink tea and discuss death. Contact rachel.eden@holybrook-associates.co.uk · Event: ‘Dying Matters; Ok To Talk About It For Our Wellbeing’ -Wednesday 16th May, 10am-2:30pm Hexagon, Lower Foyer. In many communities dying is a subject that is not openly discussed which often has a negative impact on people’s mental health. Listen to guest speakers and take part in relaxed and friendly discussion groups. Contact info@acre-reading.org · Dying Matters; It's healthy to talk about it. Friday 18 May 11am–1pm. RISC,Global Cafe and World Shop, London Street, Reading RG1 4PS. Event organised by ACRE, Utulivu Women and Women of Vision. Call 07859063643 to find out more. · Reading Film Theatre showing of That Good Night (12A), a film about the once famous screenwriter who is terminally ill. Thursday 7 June at 8 to 10pm. www.readingfilmtheatre.co.uk Find out more at www.facebook.com/DyingMattersRDG

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Find out more about Dying Matters at www.dyingmatters.org