Where there’s a will, there’s a way to help

AGE UK Oldham is encouraging residents to consider plans for their funeral as part of Dying Matters Week.

The awareness week, which runs until Sunday, aims to encourage members of the public to talk about death more openly.

The annual event, supported by a coalition of 30,000 organisations across the UK, encourages individuals to write a will, plan for future care and support, consider registering as an organ donor and to speak to family members about their wishes.

Lisa O’Brien, of Age UK Oldham, said: “Where and how we are finally laid to rest is one aspect of a dignified end of life. Of course, it’s a sensitive issue, but discussing wishes with family and considering well in advance the practical arrangements for a funeral and how it should be paid for can save a lot of worry and difficulty at a deeply upsetting time.

“With Dying Matters Awareness Week taking place, now is a good time to start thinking about funeral plans, no matter your age.”

She added that the cost of a funeral is rising each year, with a recent report by the International Longevity Centre (ILC) predicting a simple funeral will cost over £5,000 by 2020.

Lisa added: “Funeral plans allow you to begin thinking about the service, should you choose to do so.

“For example, where you might like to be laid to rest, music and other details can be tailored to your individual requirements.

“Talk about your plans with loved ones — although the topic can be difficult to raise, if your family know what your wishes are, it could help to reassure you and them that they can be carried out.”

Oldhamers considering funeral plans were also encouraged to shop around to find a plan most suited to them and read the fine print on the plan.

For information on the Age UK Guaranteed Funeral Plan, call 0161-622 9300 or pop into Age UK on Lord Street, Oldham.