Introduction

In early 2023, two friends, Lucinda Mackworth-Young MA and Briony Bax MBE, started discussing death and its inevitability. It seemed to them that while many of us spend a good deal of time planning for birthdays, weddings and other celebrations, most of us spend very little time thinking about our deaths, and it would be a great help to our loved ones if our affairs were in order, and our end of life wishes were communicated, well before any life threatening event.

We all need to be prepared for what might happen next -emotionally, psychologically and spiritually (in an open, feet on the ground and not necessarily religious way -although with total respect for participants’ religions and beliefs). There is a great deal of evidence from people who’ve had near-death experiences and after death communication, and from people who are able to see or sense what is happening for the person who is dying. One thing is certain in all our lives and that is our death.

The Course

With the above in mind, Lucinda and Briony have to created a two-day course in order to help people prepare and discuss death in a safe and supportive atmosphere. 

Participants will each receive a folder, handouts and practical advice. The first half of each session, presented by Briony, will focus on the practical and legal side of planning. The second, led by Lucinda, will focus on the emotional, psychological and spiritual side, and include practical strategies for dealing with the difficult emotions which may arise around the subject within ourselves and our relationships. Lucinda will also lead discussion, in which everyone will be able to share their own experiences, together with recommended resources, on whether and how we may know and prepare for what happens next.

Venues

We have found that the best way to present and share this material is in the comfort of a private home, with six – eight course participants many of whom may already know each other, thus fostering a relaxed and intimate atmosphere. If you would like to host such an event, with Lucinda and Briony’s help, please be in touch using our email or phone 0771 5233221.

To find out more or to book a two day course please email practicalinspirationfordying@gmail.com

NB This course is NOT suitable for those currently suffering from a recent bereavement.

TESTIMONIALS

I have nothing but praise for this course, Death and Dying is such an important subject. It is most helpful to know all the details and views, of which most people are ignorant because it is rarely discussed. M.M.

I am a 63 year old ‘grown up’, but like most English people, I have never spoken about death in such an open and safe way.  The statutory requirements following the death of a close relative were carefully discussed along with practical suggestions of how to deal with it while in a uniquely emotional state. L.M

I attended the Death & Dying course this summer 2023.  It was time so well spent, as full of useful practical & legal information from experienced speakers. for example, how to prepare for death, make a will, Power of Attorney & finding an Undertaker.  Plenty of time for questions. Knowledgeable Hospice staff and a Chaplain spoke of their observations on what dying looks like in person.  How to prepare your family.  What you might feel or see. What to do when death happens. Most importantly how to talk about Death without fear, thereby helping family and friends as well as oneself. S.O.