Most people say they would like a “good death”, yet few have the opportunity to explore what that really means or how to plan for it. A free community event taking place in Watford this February aims to open up gentle, honest conversations about future care and the choices that matter most.
‘Thinking ahead – a conversation about future care’ invites local residents to come together for an afternoon of learning, reflection, and open discussion. The event will encourage people to think about their own wishes for future care, as well as how best to support a loved one approaching the later stages of life.
During the session, attendees will explore what a “good death” means from both a personal and practical perspective. Dr. Hannah Cowling, from Bridgewater Surgeries, and Dr. Sarah Klinger, from Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care, will talk through the benefits of key tools such as Advance Care Planning and the ReSPECT form, which help ensure that an individual’s preferences are known and respected.
Staff from Rennie Grove Peace and other local palliative care services will be on hand to explain the support offered locally and to answer questions in a warm and reassuring setting.
In addition to the main discussion, refreshments will be available, and several local organisations will host information stands, offering further guidance and support.
The event is being delivered by Rennie Grove Peace with the support of Watford Borough Council and Bridgewater Surgeries, reflecting a shared commitment to helping the community approach conversations about dying, death and future care with confidence and compassion.
Alison May, compassionate communities manager at Rennie Grove Peace, emphasises the importance of opening up these conversations: “Talking openly about death and dying helps ensure that people’s preferences and wishes are understood, respected and acted upon. When we make space for these conversations, we give people the chance to feel safe, supported and at peace at the end of their lives. It’s one of the most meaningful things we can do for ourselves and for those we love.”
The session aims to create a welcoming, open space – whether individuals are considering their own future care or that of a loved one. Above all, it recognises that dying does matter, and that talking about it can make a meaningful difference.
The event will take place at Leavesden Green Community Hub in Watford, on Monday, February 16. The event will take place between 2.00pm to 4.00pm, with doors opening at 1.45pm.
The event is free, drop-in, and open to all members of the community.
While RSVP is not essential, attendees can choose to do so to help the organisers plan for numbers: www.bit.ly/thinkingaheadrsvp
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