As depressing as it sounds, there are two things that happen to us all – we’re born and we die.

While birth is celebrated, death, for understandable reasons, is something we find far harder to talk about.

Research has shown that nearly two thirds of UK adults don’t have a will*, which means there’s a strong chance loved ones don’t know our wishes for the end of our lives.

During Dying Matters Awareness Week (14-20th May), we’re all encouraged to think about what we want to happen at the time of our death.

No one is denying this will be a tricky conversation to have, but once you’ve told everyone your wishes, you can rest assured your loved ones will give you the send-off you want.

One way to think of it is; how do I want my life to be celebrated?

Currently just over one in five pass away whilst living in a care home** which means we play a crucial role in enabling people to live well and have a good death when the time comes, safe in the knowledge that their wishes will be respected and that arrangements requested, have been made.

So whilst such discussions can be difficult, they are essential, and they are often welcomed by the individual concerned.

I want to encourage everyone, whatever the circumstances, to give thought to these issues in a positive frame of mind during Dying Matters Week.

Dan Hayes

Chief Executive Officer

The Orders of St John Care Trust