HOSPICE staff are urging people to talk openly about death.

Members of the St Teresa’s Hospice family support team will be raising awareness of bereavement care at Sainsbury’s, in Victoria Road, Darlington, later this week.

The event is part of the Dying Matters Awareness Week, which runs until Sunday, May 24 and aims to raise awareness about end of life issues.

It has been organised by the Dying Matters Coalition to encourage people to talk openly about dying, death and bereavement.

The theme of the week is ‘talk, plan, live,’ and people are being encouraged to take five steps to make their end of life experience better for them, and for their loved ones.

The steps are writing a will, record your funeral wishes, plan your future care and support, consider registering as an organ donor, and tell your loved ones your wishes.

Jane Bradshaw, hospice director, said: “Participating in the Dying Matters awareness week is an important part of the Hospice’s calendar.

“As the lead end of life care provider in the area, St Teresa’s Hospice exists to support patients and their families, and we see many examples where preparation helps people to make the most of their time, and reduces stress for all concerned.

“Talk, plan, live, is great advice and I cannot endorse this campaign strongly enough.”

Claire Henry, chief executive of the Dying Matters Coalition and the National Council for Palliative Care said: “Through being more confident in talking about dying and taking the five steps we are promoting during Dying Matters Awareness Week to plan for the future, we can make a big difference.”

St Teresa’s Hospice will be running exhibition days at Sainsbury’s from 10am to 2pm on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.