Current Events
Monthly Death Cafes
Let’s break the taboo, and talk about Death! This event is an informal space to talk with others about something which affects us all…so boil the kettle, raid the biscuit tin and come and join the conversation!
Please note that this is a discussion group rather than a grief support or counselling session.
These events are open to staff and members of the public.
Events run by the Team
Currently these events happen on MS Teams so places are limited. However, if you are a curious about what a Death Café might be like, we’d encourage you to come along and say hello!
Please keep and eye on this page or our twitter feed for dates. Click date below to book for our next session.
Online Death Cafe as part of Demystifying Death Week 2024
Death Cafes Around the Country (and world!)
Death Cafes are springing up all over the world and there are some that are local. Visit www.deathcafe.com to find your nearest cafe.
Some cafes we know of:
Glasgow Southside Death Cafe
This is an in-person cafe which usually runs the first Thursday of the month 7.30pm-9.00pm at Finns Place (Southside of Glasgow – Langside Church, 167 Ledard Road, Glasgow, G42 9QU). Free refreshments available. For more information and dates visit the Finn’s Place website.
Kali Collective Death Cafe (near Anderston, Glasgow City Centre)
This is an in-person cafe which usually runs the last Thursday of the Month, 7.15 – 8.30pm at Kali Collective Yoga Studio, Unit 203, 54 Washington St, Glasgow G3 8AZ. Free refreshments available.
Govanhill Death Cafe
This is a new cafe that has just started and running 3 sessions to see what the interest is like and if the location is suitable.
This is an in-person cafe which usually runs the third Wednesday of the month (running in Feb, Mar and April), 6.30-8.00pm at Square Park Coffee, On Maxwell Square Park, 44 Leslie Street G41 2LB. Tea/Coffee/Cake available to purchase (but there is no requirement to buy something).
Cambuslang Death Cafe
This is a new cafe which is launching in Demystifying Death Week on Sunday 12th May, 2.00pm-4.00pm at Cambuslang Parish Church, 1 Arnott Way, Cambuslang, Glasgow G72 7JQ. Future dates and times of the cafe are still to be decided. Free refreshments available.
The Whiteinch Death Cafe
This is a new cafe which is launching in Demystifying Death Week on Friday 10th May, 10.45am-1.00pm at The Whiteinch Centre, 1 Northinch Court, G14 0UG. Future dates and times of the cafe are still to be decided. Free refreshments available.
This cafe asks participants to book ahead so they know numbers. Book your place here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/880218536337?aff=oddtdtcreator
Focused Fundamentals (Bite Sized Learning)
These sessions are bite sized learning events for staff which focus on a specific topic to provide an overview. Sessions are less interactive, focusing instead on delivering information, however there is an opportunity to ask questions at the end of each session. They usually last between 30 – 45 minutes.
Current Topics Covered
- Clinical Portal Walk Through
- Future Care Planning Introduction
- Rockwood Clinical Frailty Score
- Power of Attorney
If there is a topic you would like us to consider then please email at ACPSupport@ggc.scot.nhs.uk
You can find more information including dates and registration links on our training hub pages.
If there is a topic you would like us to consider then please email at ACPSupport@ggc.scot.nhs.uk
Plan More, Stress Less Sessions
As part of our Plan More, Stress Less toolkit, we host interactive sessions which cover all you need to know about getting yourself, and those you support prepared for any unexpected event including hospital admissions.
This session last approximately 1.5 hours and includes opportunities for you to ask questions. The sessions are online.
Topics covered in the session include:
- Helpful paperwork
- What to bring to hospital
- What conversations we may have whilst in hospital
- Planning for a successful discharge from hospital
- Post-discharge support
Dates throughout 2024 – as advertised below. Click date below to book for our next session.
If you are an organisation who who like to organise a specific session for the people you support please email at ACPSupport@ggc.scot.nhs.uk. In some cases we may be able to offer this as an in-person session.
Alongside this session we have created two resources which anyone can use to help them plan for any future hospital admission. This could be a planned admission, for example if someone is going to hospital for an operation or to have some tests. However these resources can also be useful if someone needs to go to hospital in an emergency.
If you have any questions or feedback about these resources please email ACPSupport@ggc.scot.nhs.uk.
Preparing for Hospital Checklist
This checklist will help you think about all the different forms which you can complete just now that would be useful if you were ever in hospital. This includes things like a Future Care Plan and a Power of Attorney.
A Plan to Get You Home
This resources lets you and the people who support you, think about what might need to happen in order to get you home from hospital in a safe and timely manner. This includes thinking about who could collect you from hospital and where you might need to live if you need some extra support for a short time or on a more permanent basis.
Demystifying Death Week 2024
We are thrilled to launch our programme of events for Demystifying Death Week 2024.
Monday 6th May
Pet Bereavement
Monday 6th May 2024, 6.30pm-7.30pm.
Taking place online (MS Teams)
This event is open to the public. Everyone is welcome.
For many people pets are family and so it is only natural to grieve their loss. Wendy Andrew founded the Scottish Pet Bereavement Counselling Service to help others recover from the death of animal companions.
During this session we will be talking about everything from the wealth of emotion that accompanies a decision to euthanise a pet, to speaking to children about the death of a pet. We will discuss some of the common feelings that people may experience and highlight different places where support is available. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions to our Wendy.
This session is delivered in partnership with the Scottish Pet Bereavement Counselling Service.
Tuesday 7th May
Power of Attorney
Tuesday 7th May 2024, 12.30pm-1.00pm
Taking place online (MS Teams)
This event is open to the public. Everyone is welcome.
The legal parts of future planning can often be confusing, with lots of people not quite sure where to start. This session will explore how to get started with Power of Attorney and making a Will, and why both of these things are so important. There will also be an opportunity to put any questions you have to an expert.
Wednesday 8th May
Plan More, Stress Less
Wednesday 8th May 2024, 10.00am-11.30am
Taking place online (MS Teams)
This event is open to the public. Everyone is welcome.
When you or someone you care about becomes ill, life can become very stressful. That is why we think it is so important for people to talk to each other and make plans before this happens.
As part of our Plan More, Stress Less Toolkit, is for anyone interested in getting started with planning ahead. In this session we talk about what paperwork we can complete before a crisis arises, what actually happens when someone goes into hospital and how we can all work together to plan for a safe and timely discharge.
Deathcare in the Queer Community
Wednesday 8th May 2024, 6.30pm-7.30pm
Taking place online (MS Teams)
This event is open to the public. Everyone is welcome.
Whether it is planning a funeral, or ensuring that people know your wishes and preferences when it comes to end of life care, having people and tools to help your feel empowered is vital. For members of the Queer community there can be added anxiety about some of these aspects such as what happens with legal paperwork, and how to ensure that the people you want to be involved in care and planning can be.
This panel discussion will help to answer some of these questions and provide a space to discuss important topics including how we can create inclusive services which embrace and celebrate people’s identities.
During this session we will discuss some of the common feelings that people may experience and highlight different places where support is available. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions to our panel of experts who have backgrounds in various parts of this field.
Thursday 9th May
Having Conversations That Matter
Thursday 9th May 2024, 10.00am-11.30am
Taking place online (MS Teams)
This event is open to the public. Everyone is welcome.
This is an experiential workshop to give participants an easy way to start thinking about what’s important to them and those around them.
Paying for a Funeral – Myth Busters
Thursday 9th May 2024, 12.30pm-1.30pm
Taking place online (MS Teams)
This event is open to the public. Everyone is welcome.
With the average cost of a funeral in Scotland being over £4000*, the financial burden of death and dying can be overwhelming. Caledonia Funeral Aid aim to support people navigating this difficult time by offering advice, as well as practical and emotional support.
During this session we will be discussing some of the help that is available such as the Funeral Support Payment as well as thinking about creative ways we can honour and celebrate those who have died. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions to our expert.
*Source: SunLife Cost of Dying Report 2024
This session is delivered in partnership with Caledonia Funeral Aid.
Anticipatory Grief
Thursday 9th May 2024, 6.30pm-7.30pm
Taking place online (MS Teams)
This event is open to the public. Everyone is welcome.
Whilst some deaths can be sudden and unexpected, most follow a period of illness which could last months or even years. During this time everyone can experience a wealth of emotions including anticipatory grief as we realise that a loss is coming.
This panel discussion will explore anticipatory grief from various points of view including carers of those living with Dementia and parents who have a child with a life-limiting condition. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions to our panel of experts who have backgrounds in various parts of this journey.
Friday 10th May
Death Cafe (online)
Friday 10th May 2024, 10.00am-11.00am
Taking place online (MS Teams)
This event is open to the public. Everyone is welcome.
Let’s break the taboo, and talk about Death! This event is an informal space to talk with others about something which affects us all…so boil the kettle, raid the biscuit tin and come and join the conversation!
Please note that this is a discussion group rather than a grief support or counselling session.
Previous Events
You can read about past events below. We have also recorded some of our events so that you can watch them in your own time – the videos are available under each event description.
Past Events
Demystifying Death Week 2022
2nd – 6th May 2022
Demystifying death week is about shining a light on death, dying and bereavement in Scotland. Events throughout the week will give people knowledge, skills and opportunities to plan and support each other through death, dying, loss and care.
This year NHSGGC ran 13 events across the week. Some events were recorded and you can watch them below.
You can read our Summary Report for the week.
Additional Resources:
Demystifying Death Week 2022 – Resource List
Demystifying Death Week 2022 – Carers Resource List
Demystifying Death Week 2022 Events
Taking Care of Yourself When Looking After Someone
Supporting other people can take its toll, and whilst it may be the last thing on our minds, taking time for ourselves is really important. Come along for an informal chat about some ways to help recharge and promote self-care.
This session was not recorded.
Death Cafe
Let’s break the taboo, and talk about Death! This event is an informal space to talk with others about something which affects us all…so boil the kettle, raid the biscuit tin and come and join the conversation!
Please note that this is a discussion group rather than a grief support or counselling session.
This session was not recorded.
Having Conversations That Matter
This is an experiential workshop to give participants an easy way to start thinking about what’s important to them and those around them. This event is open to any member of staff working in Health and Social Care across the Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board Area.
This session was not recorded.
Anticipatory Care Planning – An Introduction for Staff
Anticipatory Care Planning has benefits for everyone. It empowers people to tell us what really matters; it gives friends and family an opportunity to talk open and honestly; and it helps professionals to work with everyone to create the best care and treatment plans possible. During the session we will be looking at tools and resources we use across NHSGGC to help promote future planning, and how our systems work together to share information. ACP is everyone’s business, so make sure you know your role in the conversation.
You can watch the recording here:
Planning for The Future
When it comes to planning for the future, do you even know where to start? During this informal information session we will give you some ideas of things to think about and tools to help you plan, as well as telling you how this information can be shared with others so that everyone is in the know.
You can watch the recording here:
Preparing for Hospital – What You Need to Know
No one wants to go into hospital, but sometimes it is unavoidable. However there are some simple things we can do now, to try and make the experience less stressful for everyone.
Come along to learn about making “grab bags”, what paperwork to bring along and what the discharge process might look like. This event might be particularly useful for anyone supporting someone else and worried about what the future might look like.
You can watch the recording here:
What is Palliative Care?
When you think about palliative care, what is the first thing that comes to mind? “Terminal illness”? “End of life”? “Comfort Care”? Whilst all these things are true, palliative care is so much more than this. It is about improving the quality of life of anyone facing a life-limiting condition and can be beneficial at lots points during someone’s health journey. During this session, we will be busting some myths when it comes to Palliative Care and also exploring the support that the NHSGGC Specialist Palliative Care Team can provide both colleagues and patients.
Recording will be available shortly.
Power of Attorney / Making a Will
The legal parts of future planning can often be confusing, with lots of people not quite sure where to start. This session will explore how to get started with Power or Attorney and making a Will, and why both of these things are so important. There will also be an opportunity to put any questions you have to an expert.
You can watch the part of the session about Power of Attorney here:
You can watch the part of the session about Wills here:
Future Care Planning Communication Training (also known as Anticipatory Care Planning)
This is part of our usual training programme. The session helps staff reflect on the best way to incorporate Future Care Planning conversations into their everyday practice.
This session was not recorded.
For future dates please visit our ACP Training Hub
Future Care Planning and Treatment Escalation Plans
How can we help our on-call teams to do the right thing in the middle of the night – when faced with a deteriorating patient that they have never met? Sometimes intervening may be of no benefit or could cause distress but making that judgement can be very difficult. It is possible that there is a plan but accessing it may be a challenge. We will discuss the plans that may be available, how to find them, how to improve them and how to initiate them and have the conversation. Please note, this is a recording on a session which took place as part of NHSGGC’s Realistic Medicine Week in March 2022.
Recording will be available shortly.
What Happens When Someone is Dying
Dying is a normal process, but these days the process is often surrounded in mystery. Come along to learn more about what actually happens as someone approaches the end of their life and have an opportunity to talk to some experts.
This session was not recorded.
Seasons of Change – Spring Session 2022
An opportunity for staff to reflect on loss, grief and bereavement
Loss, grief, and bereavement are universal emotions. Whilst death and dying is a natural part of life, during the past two years it is likely that many more people have been touched by experiences which may have triggered feelings associated with loss and change.
To give staff an opportunity to reflect on both our collective and individual experiences, a new informal online event was created. The intention was to create a space for staff to reflect and recharge. There was no active participation necessary, rather staff are encouraged to listen and reflect on the various contemplative pieces (sessions will also have subtitles).
Staff from across all parts of health and social care were encouraged to attend, including our colleagues in Care Homes, Primary Care and Third Sector.
Sessions ran on MS Teams everyday during lunchtime of the week 16th-20th May 2022.
You can read our Summary Report for the session.
You can now watch the session in your own time.
Additional Resources:
Carers Week 2022
Carers Week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK. It also helps people who don’t think of themselves as having caring responsibilities to identify as carers and access much-needed support.
The campaign is brought to life by thousands of individuals and organisations who come together to provide support for carers, run activities, highlight the vital role carers play in our communities and draw attention to just how important caring is.
This year NHSGGC hosted 5 events as part of Carers Week 2022. We will also be highlighting how staff can help support carers and work with them as equal partners in care. Please follow @NHSGGCCarers on Twitter for all the latest updates.
You can read our Summary Report for the week.
Additional Resources:
Carers Week 2022 – Resource List
Taking Care of Yourself When Looking After Someone
Supporting other people can take its toll, and whilst it may be the last thing on our minds, taking time for ourselves is really important. Come along for an informal chat about some ways to help recharge and promote self-care.
This session was not recorded.
Death Cafe
Let’s break the taboo, and talk about Death! This event is an informal space to talk with others about something which affects us all…so boil the kettle, raid the biscuit tin and come and join the conversation!
Please note that this is a discussion group rather than a grief support or counselling session.
This session was not recorded.
Having Conversations That Matter
This is an experiential workshop to give participants an easy way to start thinking about what’s important to them and those around them. This event is open to any member of staff working in Health and Social Care across the Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board Area.
This session was not recorded.
Planning for The Future
When it comes to planning for the future, do you even know where to start? During this informal information session we will give you some ideas of things to think about and tools to help you plan, as well as telling you how this information can be shared with others so that everyone is in the know.
This was a repeat of the session run during Demystifying Death Week. You can watch it here:
Preparing for Hospital – What You Need to Know
No one wants to go into hospital, but sometimes it is unavoidable. However there are some simple things we can do now, to try and make the experience less stressful for everyone.
Come along to learn about making “grab bags”, what paperwork to bring along and what the discharge process might look like. This event might be particularly useful for anyone supporting someone else and worried about what the future might look like.
This was a repeat of the session run during Demystifying Death Week. You can watch it here:
Seasons of Change – Autumn Session, 2022
Following the success of our Spring 2022 session, Seasons of Change made a return in November 2022!
Staff had another opportunity to reflect of the loss, grief and bereavement they have experienced with a new immerse session running across lunchtimes (12pm-2pm) from 7th-11th November 2022 on MS Teams.
Staff from across all parts of health and social care were encouraged to attend, including our colleagues in Care Homes, Primary Care and Third Sector.
You can watch the session yourself below. Please be aware this session touches upon the topics of suicide and sudden death.
To Absent Friends Week (1st – 7th November 2022)
To Absent Friends gives people across Scotland an excuse to remember, to tell stories, to celebrate and to reminisce about people we love who have died. To Absent Friends, a People’s Festival of Storytelling and Remembrance is an opportunity to revive lost traditions and create new ones. The festival is supported and organised by the Scottish Partnership for Palliative Care.
The festival happens every year from 1st to 7th November.
Find out more about past events for To Absent Friends Week on their website.
Pre-Week Events
On the 12th September 2022 we held some informal sessions for community groups and care homes to come together to learn more about the week, share ideas for events and find out how the grant application process works.
These were both really successful and we look forward to see what everyone plans for November!
Events During the Week
We will be hosted 4 events throughout the week – please see below for details. We also be launched our autumnal Seasons of Change on the last day of the festival.
1st and 3rd November 2022
Having Conversations That Matter
This is an experiential workshop to give participants an easy way to start thinking about what’s important to them and those around them. This event is open to any member of staff working in Health and Social Care across the Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board Area.
We hope to continue running these sessions in the future.
2nd November 2022
Taking Care of Yourself When Looking After Someone
Supporting other people can take its toll, and whilst it may be the last thing on our minds, taking time for ourselves is really important. Come along for an informal chat about some ways to help recharge and promote self-care.
4th November 2022
Death Cafe
Let’s break the taboo, and talk about Death! This event is an informal space to talk with others about something which affects us all…so boil the kettle, raid the biscuit tin and come and join the conversation!
7th November 2022
Seasons of Change
The launch of our autumnal Seasons of Change was on the last day of the To Absent Friends Festival. Please see the Seasons of Change tab for more information.
Carers Rights Day 2022
In the lead up to Carers Rights Day on the 24th November 2022, we hosted events for both staff and the public to raise awareness of unpaid carers and how we can ensure everyone is supported.
Sessions of the Public
Preparing for Hospital – What You Need to Know
No one wants to go into hospital, but sometimes it is unavoidable. However there are some simple things we can do now, to try and make the experience less stressful for everyone.
Come along to learn about making “grab bags”, what paperwork to bring along and what the discharge process might look like. This event might be particularly useful for anyone supporting someone else and worried about what the future might look like.
You can watch the recording here:
Sessions for Staff
Involving and Supporting Carers
This session looked at the legal duties of staff working in acute, community and/or primary care. In particular discussed how staff can encourage carers to recognise their role, how to refer to support services and the legal duty staff have to involve carers in discharge planning. We also mentioned some of the systems which help us record information about any known carers and share this with other services.
We are hoping to re-run these session in 2023 for more staff. If you would like to organise a session for your team or service please get in touch at ACPSupport@ggc.scot.nhs.uk.
Demystifying Death Week 2023
Demystifying Death Week returned in 2023, bigger than ever! There are so many things we wanted to share with you, we decided to celebrate across two weeks instead of one. This also coincided with Dying Matters Week in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
This year we were thrilled to have partnered up with other services and local organisation to co-deliver some of these events.
A report of the week will follow soon.
Events by Name
ACP Session for the 5 Day Palliative Care Course
We ran a session on ACP for the 5 Day Palliative Care Course which is run by the wonderful team of Macmillan Nurse Facilitators in GGC. Through this course registered nurses get a fantastic insight into the world of palliative care and can increase their knowledge and skills to be able to help those they support.
If you are interested in attending a future course please email info@palliativecareggc.org.uk for more details.
A Day in the Life of… an Anatomical Pathology Technologist
Do you know what an Anatomical Pathology Technologist does? We’ll give you a hint – they work in our hospital mortuaries!
Whilst it may not be the career everyone imagines when they are younger, it can be a hugely rewarding and privileged role to have. This session allowed us to hear from someone with first-hand experience about what it is really like to work in a mortuary.
A recording of the session will be available shortly.
A Day in the Life of…a Funeral Director and Crematorium Manager
Whilst it may not be the career everyone imagines when they are younger, it can be a hugely rewarding and privileged role to have. This session allowed us to hear from someone with first-hand experience about what it is really like to work in the funeral industry.
This event was in partnership with Battlefield Community Project, Finn’s Place and the Hurlet Crematorium.
A recording of the session will be available shortly.
Anticipatory Care Planning – An Introduction for Staff
Anticipatory Care Planning has benefits for everyone. It empowers people to tell us what really matters; it gives friends and family an opportunity to talk open and honestly; and it helps professionals to work with everyone to create the best care and treatment plans possible. During the session we looked at tools and resources we use across NHSGGC to help promote future planning, and how our systems work together to share information.
ACP is everyone’s business, so make sure you know your role in the conversation.
You can watch a similar recording from our Demystifying Death Week 2022.
Anticipatory Care Planning and Treatment Escalation Plans
How can we help our on-call teams to do the right thing in the middle of the night – when faced with a deteriorating patient that they have never met? Sometimes intervening may be of no benefit or could cause distress but making that judgement can be very difficult. It is possible that there is a plan but accessing it may be a challenge.
In this session discussed the plans that may be available, how to find them, how to improve them and how to initiate them and have the conversation.
A recording of the session will be available shortly.
Anticipatory Care Planning Communication Skills Training
This was part of our usual training programme. The session helps staff reflect on the best way to incorporate ACP conversations into their everyday practice.
Please visit our Training Hub for future dates.
Any Last Words?
How do you want to be remembered? What are the stories you want people to tell (or not tell!) about you? What is the soundtrack of your life? Funeral planning doesn’t need to be doom and gloom, especially if you can have your say when you’re still alive!
These days more and more people are creating occasions which are as unique as the person they commemorate, however it always helps in you have at least some idea of what that person would have wanted.
This was a fun workshop which will helped us all to think about some of the little (and big!) things we might want for our own send off.
This event was run in partnership with Battlefield Community Project and Finn’s Place.
If you are interested to learn more about this session please contact ACPSupport@ggc.scot.nhs.uk.
Death Café
We hosted both an online and in-person Death Cafe.
Death cafes are informal spaces to talk with others about something which affects us all. They are discussion groups rather than a grief support or counselling session.
End of Life Aid Skills for Everyone (EASE) Course
EASE Online is a five-week course which is delivered via MS Teams and the learning platform Moodle. It is open to all staff across NHS, HSCP, Primary Care, Care Homes and third sectors and members of the public – the course is designed to enable people to be more comfortable and confident supporting family and community members with issues they face during dying, death and bereavement. The course has been developed by the Scottish Partnership for Palliative Care.
You can join the waiting list to be the first to know when new dates are released.
Please visit our Training Hub for more information.
Flower Power – remembering those we miss
Nature gives us a great opportunity to reflect and remember, especially when we can see seasons change and plants die, only to spring up again as the days grow longer and the sun comes out.
Using forget-me-not seeds, we wanted to make lots of little seed-bombs which people can use in places where they would like to remember their loved ones. This might be a favourite view point, or on a much-loved walk – the possibilities are endless.
Our workshop gave everyone a chance to come together and share stories and memories of the people we miss and was run in partnership with Battlefield Community Project.
Having Conversations That Matter
This is an experiential workshop to give participants an easy way to start thinking about what’s important to them and those around them.
We hope to run more of these sessions in the future.
How to Host a Death Café
In the future we hope that Death Cafes will be a common as supermarkets, with communities supporting one another through the ups and downs of life. But in order to do this, we need your help!
During this session we heard how we set up both online and in-person Death Cafes within Greater Glasgow and Clyde, as well as our plans for the future. We want people to learn from our mistakes, and steal our top tips and before you know it you’ll be hosting your own!
A recording of the session will be available shortly.
Let’s talk about…bereavement in the workplace
All of us will experience bereavements throughout our lives, so it is very likely that some of these events may happen whilst you are working. Whether it is a sudden loss, or illness which develop over a longer time, trying to juggle work and personal life can be a challenge.
It can also be difficult for colleagues who don’t know what to say or do when someone is dealing with these issues, or returning after the death of someone close.
During this session we explored some of the things we can do to support each other in the workplace including things we can say, places we can signpost too and some of the policies organisations have to support their staff during these incredibly difficult times.
A recording of the session will be available shortly.
Let’s talk about…donating your body to medical science
What do you want to happen to your body after you die? For most of this question makes us think about funeral, burials, cremations. But what about donating your body to help the next generation of students and researchers understand the inner workings of the human body?
During this session we heard from colleagues at the University of Glasgow to learn all about the process that takes place when someone decides to go down this road.
This is in partnership with the University of Glasgow.
A recording of the session will be available shortly.
Let’s talk about… grief
Grief is natural and something all of us will likely experience at some point. During this session we looked at some of the different models that people have used to describe the grief process and also bust some myths people might have about what is “normal”.
This session is in partnership with the Beatson Cancer Charity.
A recording of the session will be available shortly.
Let’s talk about… hospices
Have you ever visited a hospice? Would it be somewhere you’d be afraid to go?
For many people the word “hospice” is associated with end of life care and death, however the truth is a little different. In this session we heard about all the amazing things hospices do to support people and those who matter to them, recognising that hospices are places of hope and warmth.
A recording of the session will be available shortly.
Let’s talk about…making a Power of Attorney / Making a Will
The legal parts of future planning can often be confusing, with lots of people not quite sure where to start. This session explored how to get started with Power or Attorney and making a Will, and why both of these things are so important.
You can watch a similar recording from our Demystifying Death Week 2022.
Let’s talk about…palliative care
When you think about palliative care, what is the first thing that comes to mind? “Terminal illness”? “End of life”? “Comfort Care”? Whilst all these things are true, palliative care is so much more than this.
During this panel discussion, people could ask us anything – from “how did you get into this field?” to “what does a “good death” look like?” – the floor was yours!
A recording of the session will be available shortly.
Let’s talk about… pregnancy and baby loss
Everyday people are left with the grief and trauma that often accompanies the loss of a pregnancy or baby shortly after birth. Whilst everyone’s situations are unique, as a society we can do much more to support one another in these difficult times, and that often begin with having a conversation.
During this session we discussed some of the common feelings that people may experience and highlight different places where support is available. There was also an opportunity to ask questions to our panel of experts who have backgrounds in various parts of this bereavement journey.
This session is delivered in partnership with Sands and Antenatal Results and Choices (ARC).
A recording of the session will be available shortly.
Let’s talk about… spiritual care considerations at the end of life
We were delighted to be presenting at NHSGGC Grand Rounds on the topic of spiritual care considerations at the end of life. We are lucky to live in a multi-cultural country, with people coming from all walks of life and bringing their own beliefs and views with them. However sometimes it can be difficult to remember all the different things that we can do to support someone, especially as they approach death.
During this session, colleagues from the spiritual care team explored some of the common, yet simple things we can do as staff to support patients as well as their friends and family, and also highlight some of the resources available to support staff deliver this person-centred care.
You can watch this on the Grand Rounds Stream Channel. Please note there may be restricted access to this video.
Let’s talk about… what happens when someone is dying
Dying is a normal process, but these days the process is often surrounded in mystery. During this sessions we learned more about what actually happens as someone approaches the end of their life and had an opportunity to talk to some experts.
A recording of the session will be available shortly.
Planning for The Future
When it comes to planning for the future, do you even know where to start? During this informal information session we gave you some ideas of things to think about and tools to help you plan, as well as telling you how this information can be shared with others so that everyone is in the know.
You can watch a similar recording from our Demystifying Death Week 2022.
Preparing for Hospital – What You Need to Know
No one wants to go into hospital, but sometimes it is unavoidable. However there are some simple things we can do now, to try and make the experience less stressful for everyone.
This session talks about making “grab bags”, what paperwork to bring along and what the discharge process might look like.
You can watch a similar recording from our Demystifying Death Week 2022.
Values Based Reflective Practice and Mindfulness Session: managing transitions within our work
This is a session that provided a space for practitioners to reflect on their past experiences of coping with the emotional elements of their work, and explore how we might use the idea of transition practices to support us manage the impact of death, loss and bereavement within our work.
The session included values based reflective practice (VBRP) which allowed time out to reflect on the challenges face in our roles, and reconnects us with the reasons we chose healthcare. The session also gave us an opportunity to share experiences and self-care techniques such as mindfulness and breath work to create calming transitions as we move from one care episode to another.
We hope to run more of these sessions in the future.
Other events across Glasgow and the rest of Scotland
Demystifying Death Week is a national awareness week with events happening across the whole of Scotland. For the full list of events across the week visit the Good Life, Good Death, Good Grief website.
Carers Week 2023
Carers Week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK. It also helps people who don’t think of themselves as having caring responsibilities to identify as carers and access much-needed support.
The campaign is brought to life by thousands of individuals and organisations who come together to provide support for carers, run activities, highlight the vital role carers play in our communities and draw attention to just how important caring is.
This year we took part in 6 events across the week and partnering with some amazing organisations and different team. We also highlighted how staff can help support carers and work with them as equal partners in care.
What Matters To You Sessions
This year Carers Week coincided with What Matters To You Day celebrations and we were delighted to be take part in their lunchtime webinar series.
Understanding and Supporting Unpaid Carers
This session looked at the legal duties of staff working in acute, community and/or primary care. In particular discussed how staff can encourage carers to recognise their role, how to refer to support services and the legal duty staff have to involve carers in discharge planning. We also mentioned some of the systems which help us record information about any known carers and share this with other services.
Anticipatory Care Planning
Anticipatory Care Planning has benefits for everyone. It empowers people to tell us what really matters; it gives friends and family an opportunity to talk open and honestly; and it helps professionals to work with everyone to create the best care and treatment plans possible. During the session we looked at tools and resources we use across NHSGGC to help promote future planning, and how our systems work together to share information. ACP is everyone’s business, so make sure you know your role in the conversation.
A recording of these sessions will be available soon.
How To Slow Down When Someone Dies
Monday 5th June 6.30pm-7.45pm and Friday 9th June 10.30am-11.45am
This year we partnered with Pushing Up The Daises, Caledonia Funeral Aid and Social Security Scotland to host sessions which aimed to shine a light on how people can attend to their own wellbeing following the death of a significant person, especially one they may have cared for. During the event we discussed
- ideas for helping you to start your grieving process in a way that best serves you and the people around you,
- the pros and cons of being actively involved yourself with arrangements for burial or cremation and also perhaps the person’s body,
- practical information about the Funeral Support Payment which help people with certain benefits and tax credits to pay for a funeral,
- the laws around death and funerals, and
- why your choices are really important to help your grieving and for your long term well-being.
A recording of the session will be available soon.
Preparing for Hospital – What You Need to Know
No one wants to go into hospital, but sometimes it is unavoidable. However there are some simple things we can do now, to try and make the experience less stressful for everyone.
Come along to learn about making “grab bags”, what paperwork to bring along and what the discharge process might look like. This event might be particularly useful for anyone supporting someone else and worried about what the future might look like.
You can watch a recording of a previous session here:
Carers Engagement Session – Preparing For Hospital Checklist
During this event we heard from staff, carers and members of the public about the development of a new hospital checklist based on the information provided in our “Preparing for Hospital” session. We hope to launch this resource soon.
To Absent Friends Week (1st – 7th November 2023)
We were delighted to be celebrating To Absent Friends again this year!
We hosted some events:
Death Cafe
It was great to be able to share stories with colleagues and support one another. If you would like to attend one of our Death Cafes sign up to our mailing list to hear about new dates.
Let’s Talk About…Bereavement Through Suicide
Stories From 88 Days on a Tandem Around the British Coastline
In January 2022, Xani lost his sister, Alice, to suicide. Since then he and his family have been navigating their own grief journey, supported by a number of different charities including SOBS (Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide).
In the summer of 2023, Xani decided to embark on a mammoth cycling expedition as a tribute to Alice and a way to reach out to others who have been affected by suicide, whilst also raising money for some great organisations. Over 88 days he covered over 3500 miles on a tandem around the British coastline, each day joined by a new person affected by suicide. Together as they pedalled, they shared the story of their experience and the wisdom they had gained. Not only this, he has also managed to raise over £36,000 for both SOBS and PAPYRUS.
From his time on the tandem, Xani has some incredible memories but has also gained a wealth of knowledge about the impact of grief and the different ways people begin to rebuild their lives after tragedy. During this session Xani shared his own story and reflections – from the importance of conversations to meaningful ways to honour those who have died.
A recording of the session will be available soon.
This session dealt with themes that some people may find upsetting. Please look after yourself and reach out to support if you need it.
Samaritan’s Helpline – 116 123 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week.)
Cruse Scotland Helpline (Bereavement Support) – 0808 802 6161 (Monday to Friday 9am – 8pm, weekends 10am – 2pm.)
If you need immediate help please call 999.
EASE Course
During this week we finished cohort 2 of our End of Life Aid Skills for Everyone (EASE) course and began cohort 3. If you are interested in talking part in a future course then please visit our training hub for more information.
Other Events Across Scotland
There were lost of other events happening across the country including Death Cafes, Remembrance Teas and sessions looking to reimagine the final days and hours we spend with people who have died.
This year there were lots of online events too – check out the Full National Programme here
Carers Rights Day 2023
We are delighted to celebrate Carers Rights Day once again and we have planned events for both staff and the public to raise awareness of unpaid carers and how we can ensure everyone is supported.
Sessions for the Public (staff also welcome)
Plan More, Stress Less
Thinking about the future can be daunting, however if we leave these conversations until the last minute we can cause even more stress! Come along to learn some simple things we can do now, to try and prepare for any future crisis.
In this session we will be talking about everything from thinking about who could make decisions on your behalf, what paperwork we might need and also what creature comforts would you want if you had to go into hospital. Whether you are worried that a hospital admission may be likely in the near future, or are someone who likes to be in control, this session is for you! This event might be particularly useful for anyone supporting someone else and worried about what the future might look like.
You can choose to attend our day session or evening session. Both of these sessions are online. Click on your preferred date and time to book.
This event is open to staff and members of the public.
Sessions for Health and Social Care Staff
Involving and Supporting Carers
This session looks at the legal duties of staff working in acute, community and/or primary care. In particular we discuss how staff can encourage carers to recognise their role, how to refer to support services and the legal duty staff have to involve carers in discharge planning. We also mention some of the systems which help us record information about any known carers and share this with other services.
This session will take place on Thursday 23rd November, 12.30pm-1.30pm on MS Teams.
We are hoping to re-run these session in 2024 for more staff. If you would like to organise a session for your team or service please get in touch at ACPSupport@ggc.scot.nhs.uk
National Power of Attorney Day
We are launching our brand new Power of Attorney Lunch & Learn Session as part of the national celebrations and awareness raising activity.
Power of Attorney is a topic which can confuse both staff and the public, with no one quite sure where to start. This session will explore how to get started with Power or Attorney and why this is so important.
This session will take place on Monday 27th November 12 noon – 12.30pm and is open to both staff and members of the public.
We are hoping to re-run this session in 2024. If you would like to organise a session for your team or service please get in touch at ACPSupport@ggc.scot.nhs.uk