Date
Friday
May

May 2-6

Dying Matters Week

Dying Matters Week is a time to have important conversations about death and end of life care - let's break the taboo and start talking.

Yearly Date
May 2
Type
Week

Introduction

Get ready to start important conversations and bring awareness to an important topic during Dying Matters Week, which takes place from May 2-8. This week was first launched in the UK in 2009, with the goal of encouraging people to talk openly about death, dying, and bereavement. It's a time to reflect on the significance of end-of-life care and planning, as well as remembering those who have passed away. While this may not seem like a traditionally "fun" topic, it's one that can bring people closer together and help us appreciate the importance of living life to the fullest. Let's embrace this week with open hearts and minds!

Dying Matters Week Timeline

2004
National Council for Palliative Care
The National Council for Palliative Care identifies the need for more public discussion around death and dying.
2009
Launch of Dying Matters Week
The inaugural Dying Matters Week takes place in the UK, creating a dedicated time for discussions about end-of-life topics.
2010
Increased Participation
Participation in Dying Matters Week continues to grow, with more events hosted across the country to engage diverse populations in the conversation.
2012
Global Recognition
Dying Matters Week gains international recognition with participation from countries outside of the UK.
2016
Expansion of Initiatives
Dying Matters Week initiatives expand to include more resources for end-of-life planning and bereavement support.
2021
Virtual Events Due to COVID-19
In response to the global pandemic, Dying Matters Week adapts to include virtual events and digital resources for safe participation.

How to Celebrate Dying Matters Week

1

Host a death-themed movie night

Gather some friends and watch movies that explore the topic of death and dying. This can spark meaningful conversations and reflections on the importance of discussing end-of-life matters.

2

Attend a death café

Death cafés are gatherings where people can openly discuss death and dying in a safe and comfortable environment. Attend one during Dying Matters Week to join in on the conversation and share your thoughts and feelings on the topic.

3

Write letters to loved ones

Take some time to write letters to your loved ones, expressing your feelings and thoughts about death and dying. This can be a meaningful way to open up communication and start important conversations with those closest to you.

4

Volunteer at a hospice or palliative care center

Spend some time volunteering at a hospice or palliative care center during Dying Matters Week. This can be a way to support and show appreciation for those who work in end-of-life care and to learn more about the services they offer.

5

Host a death positive discussion group

Gather a group of friends for a death positive discussion group where you can explore different perspectives on death and dying. This can be a thought-provoking and enlightening way to celebrate Dying Matters Week.

Why Dying Matters Week is Important

A

It raises awareness about end-of-life issues

Dying Matters Week is an opportunity to have open and honest conversations about subjects that are often considered taboo, such as death and dying. By raising awareness, we can help people better understand these important topics and make more informed decisions for themselves and their loved ones.

B

It promotes planning for the future

During Dying Matters Week, there is a focus on making arrangements for end-of-life care, such as creating wills, advance healthcare directives, and discussing funeral wishes. This ensures that our loved ones know what we want in case we are unable to communicate our wishes ourselves.

C

It offers support and resources for those affected by death and dying

Dying Matters Week provides a platform for organizations and individuals to share resources, support networks, and advice for those facing death or grieving the loss of a loved one. This can be incredibly valuable in helping people cope and find ways to honor their loved ones' memories.

Dying Matters Week Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
May 1
Monday
2024
May 1
Wednesday
2025
May 1
Thursday
2026
May 1
Friday
2027
May 1
Saturday