Talking on menu at new cafe that gives bereaved space
DOMINIC MOFFITT
DEATH is something that people can be scared of - and a topic that can be difficult to discuss.
But one woman from Hyndburn is looking to change that by hosting a death cafe in the town, a space for people to openly discuss the subject with strangers.
Claire Waddington, will be holding the first meeting of the death cafe at Space 2 Make in Accrington next month, having attended similar events in Manchester.
She was inspired to start the event after she lost a close relative earlier this year.
“My dad passed away in February,” she said.
“It was an interesting and difficult time and I was looking online for help with my bereavement when I saw these death cafes.
“They aren’t a form of
counselling or support but a place to discuss death and I went to a couple in Manchester.
“It made me realise how little we talk about death and dying in this country and how much we fear talking about it whereas in other cultures it is talked about and sometimes celebrated.”
The idea of the death cafe was first conceived by John Underwood in 2010 and since then hundreds have sprung up across the world.
Having attended the death cafes in Manchester Miss Waddington decided she wanted to set-up her own in Accrington.
She said: “I’m a social worker so I do look after people who are nearing the end of their life and talked to their families about it.
“I’m around death a lot so you could say I have somewhat of an interest.”
The first meeting will take place at Space 2 Make in Blackburn Road, Accrington on Thursday, August 1, starting at 7pm and ending at 9pm.
Those attending can sit and talk openly about death, discussing their fears and hopes for life as well as beliefs.
It is an open forum and Miss Waddington says their various there is no agenda or prescription to what can and can’t be discussed.
“I know it sounds quite morbid and macabre but it isn’t,” she said.
“It’s really quite a positive experience, people just sit in little groups talking and eating cake, I’ve had people of all ages sign-up to attend.”