Dying Matters – Let’s Talk About it

Vanessa Kemp, local retired nurse and funeral celebrant, is inviting the Thame and local community to join the conversation about death, dying, and grief in ways that resonate with them during this year’s Dying Matters Awareness Week (5–11 May 2025).  

The national campaign, led by Hospice UK, encourages open and honest discussions about end of life experiences. This year’s theme, The Culture of Dying Matters, delves into the diverse ways communities across the UK discuss, navigate, and commemorate death and dying, while emphasising the shared emotions that connect us all in grief and loss.  

Vanessa is hosting two events:

Wednesday the 7^th of May, 10am until midday, in room 1 at Thame Barns Centre OX9 3AJ 

Thursday the 8^th of May, 7:30 until 9pm, upstairs at The Cross Keys OX9 3JS

Suggested donation of £5, with all profits going to Hospice UK 

Chris White, Senior Digital Marketing & Campaign Manager at Hospice UK, said:  
“Talking about death and dying is never easy, but it’s vital. Honest and timely conversations can ensure that people get the support they need and help loved ones better understand their wishes.  

“This Dying Matters Awareness Week, we’re focusing on the diverse cultural approaches to death and dying within the UK and how those perspectives can inspire more open, meaningful discussions in every community. 
 
“We hope that by sharing and learning from these experiences, we can create a society where talking about death is less of a taboo and where everyone feels empowered to have these conversations.”