My role within the NHS is to build “Compassionate Communities”, which includes raising awareness generally about the importance of advanced planning. I have also trained with ‘Living Well Dying Well’ and I am a member of End of Life Doula UK. 

 

Through this, I have the skills, knowledge and experience to sensitively support people nearing End of Life. This includes providing a safe space to talk about what matters, to think through how they want to live until they die, as well as where they want to be cared for and by whom. I can share information to help people make informed choices to plan for death and make arrangements for afterwards; then, I can work with other professionals to document these advance decisions. 

 

What I have learnt is there is choice, real choice, in our ending. Planning for death, which is inevitable for us all, is empowering and can provide great comfort. 

 

My own father had a flair for words. He crafted his ceremony with me and there really was nothing more special and comforting to me to know that, when we came together to say goodbye to him in a way that he had set out, we used his words and poetry to define that moment.

 

So as a Celebrant, I offer my skills, knowledge and experience to support you to make informed choices about your own funeral. I can discuss the shape of the ceremony and ensure it reflects your values and personality.

 

I can listen to your story and play it back to you, so that you can hear the words that reflect your life. I will safely capture them within a eulogy or tribute for when the time comes, for someone to read them at a celebration of your life.

 

My daughter Jessica can offer her skills to craft a bespoke poem that shares your thoughts, feelings or reflections, or simply celebrates those things that are important you. 

 

Together, we can ensure that the final celebration of your life truly encompasses who you are.

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