Tallaght people turned out in force today (Monday) at Rua Red Arts Centre to speak out about dying, death and bereavement over tea and cake and discuss what matters to them at end of life. The Death Café Conversation was organised by The Irish Hospice Foundation as part of their ‘Have Your Say’ national campaign which was trending last Saturday at #haveyoursayirl. All feedback from the Tallaght conversation will inform the first ever ‘Irish Charter on Dying, Death & Bereavement 2016’.
Sharon Foley, CEO of The Irish Hospice Foundation, was in Tallaght this morning to meet people as they arrived.
“The people of Tallaght and its environs embraced this platform and revealed their thoughts on what is priority for end of life. The warm crowd gave personal and valuable insights which will inform our charter and help us strive for adequate supports. Some asked for more open public conversations on the topic so we can normalise talking about death from a younger age. Others said make sure your loved ones know your wishes and you write them down. Many told their own stories of loss and what helped them through or what could be done better.
“It sparked conversations about end of life such as do I want flowers or donations, hymns or songs, who will mind the dog when I’m gone, can I donate my body, and it’s easier to talk to about other people’s death rather than your own. Over 600 people completed our survey in the space of a few weeks including people in Tallaght this morning. It can be completed online https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/haveyoursayirl or by phoning our office for a copy,” continued CEO Sharon Foley.
“Every day 80 people die in Ireland; that’s 29,000 people every year. Each of us will only get once chance to die, so it’s important to think about what matters to you and give us your views. We believe best care should support everyone to live well to the end with dignity and comfort, surrounded by loved ones. We want you to #haveyoursayirl based on your experiences, knowledge, hopes and fears. We can then be informed on how to further ensure the best supports are in place for you and your loved ones. We are pleased to be leading such an important public discussion and creating this essential charter for the Irish people,” concluded Ms Foley.
The Irish Hospice Foundation is partnered with Limerick Compassionate Communities (part of Milford Hospice) in the project; and working with the support of Dublin City, Fingal and South County Dublin County Councils.
Upcoming Death Café Conversation:
- Wood Quay Venue, Dublin City Council Civic Offices, Monday 17th October 11.00am – 1.00pm
