It can be hard to find the right words at such a sensitive time but to not speak honestly, openly and in a timely way to individuals and families can have consequences. It can prevent people having discussions about their wishes in their final weeks/months, and stop people sorting out their affairs and having important conversations.
Blogs
We will be releasing some blogs this week from staff who share how they manage such conversations and why they think these are essential to have.
Blog: Having Open Honest Conversations Early
In the first of these, ELFT's Director of Nursing for Community Health, Ruth Bradley, talks about the importance of having open and honest conversations with individuals and their families. Ruth was previously Director of Nursing at St Joseph's Hospice in Hackney so has hands-on experience of supporting people at the end of their lives. Read Ruth's blog here
Events to Mark Dying Matters Awareness Week
East Ham Care Centre
7 and 8 May from 10.00-14.00 both days
Join staff in the Atrium at the entrance of East Ham Care Centre. They will be available to talk and provide information about end of life care and support.
Contact Veta Gordon for more information: veta.gordon@nhs.net
East London Mosque
Community Listening Event
The East London Mosque is holding a community event on 15 May to mark Dying Matters Week. It will take place just before lunch time prayers and be facilitated by the Iman. The mosque are expecting up to 200 people to come. As well as local leads from ELFT, the Tower Hamlets End of Life Board will be there alongside the Chaplainsy team at at St Joseph's Hospicie and Barts Health. No need to book. See location details here
Barts Health
Fear of Cancer Returning Workshops
It is fully understandable that once someone has been through the shock and emotions of having a cancer diagnosis and undergone treatment, that they will be fearful of it returning.
Barts Health's Cancer Psychological Services offer a free workshop to understand more about fears of cancer recurring or spreading, practice helpful strategies & connect with other people
Open to All: patients, relatives, friends, professionals. More information here
Genesis Cinema, Mile End - 15 May at 18.00
Much Ado About Dying - Director Q&A
Released to coincide with Dying Matters Week, this award winning and critically acclaimed feature film will play in cinemas and arts spaces across the UK.
See trailer: https://youtu.be/vIBPF4GxLY4
Hougton Regis - 7 May at Midday
Your Digital Memories Matter - Zoom Event Today
Keech Hospice are holding a workshop at midday today to prompt people to think about what will happen to their digital footprint when they die. All those forums and social media sites that many are active on. They will explore what do we mean by digital assets? What your digital assets are, where to go for help and how to turn this into conversation with family and friends. Book here
You can find information below the video about organisations who can provide support for people who are bereaved
Hospice UK Film: Mumtaz's Story