'The Big Conversation' about all the little things

Last year, an incredible 73% of British adults admitted they had not talked to someone about their funeral wishes.

During Dying Matters Awareness Week from 9th – 15th May, our funeral services teams are encouraging the region to have The Big Conversation about all the little things that make a funeral special. 

Everyone is someone’s loved one and everyone has a story; including someone’s favourite things into a service ensures that they are remembered in a way that is as individual as they were. It can be distressing for people when they are unsure of their loved one’s final wishes.

Traditionally, a funeral is a solemn ceremony, where friends and family arrive in formal dress to pay their respects and say their final farewells to a loved one. More recently we have seen an increase in ‘celebrations of life’ that are as unique and individual as the person they are dedicated to.

Working closely with families, the service can be arranged to reflect people’s passions, interests and hobbies in a more personalised ceremony. Recently our teams have seen a rise in more unique tributes, including humorous and up-beat songs, the releasing of balloons or bespoke veneered coffins; featuring a montage of treasured photographs. Reflecting characteristics in this way can provide comfort and often raise a smile.

The theme of Dying Matters Awareness Week 2016 is ‘The Big Conversation’. With an ageing population and people living for longer, discussing funeral arrangements is increasingly important.

Family and friends often draw comfort by being able to take part in a funeral service and we hope that people become more comfortable planning ahead and discussing this, often considered taboo, subject. Talking about the little things can make the conversation less scary and it’s often these moments that really count when making a funeral special.

The community has been putting its trust in our funeral services for over 90 years. Available every hour of every day, we provide flexible and personal care across our region, as well as a free bereavement counselling service.