Dove House is encouraging people across Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire to start open and honest conversations about death and dying as part of Dying Matters Week 2026.
Taking place from 4th to 10th May, Dying Matters Week is a national campaign dedicated to breaking down the stigma around talking about death, dying and bereavement. This year, Dove House is supporting the campaign with a range of community activities, online resources and practical tools to help people feel more confident approaching these important conversations.
As a leading provider of end-of-life care and bereavement support in the region, Dove House is using the week to highlight its expertise and reassure the public that support and guidance is available to everyone, not just patients and families currently accessing hospice care.
Rachel Osborne, Community Engagement and Service User Lead at the hospice, explains why Dying Matters Week is so important: “Talking about death and dying can feel difficult, but these conversations are one of the most important things we can do for ourselves and for the people we care about. At Dove House, we see every day how open conversations can bring comfort, clarity and peace of mind. Dying Matters Week is about helping people take that first step.”
“One of our patients once described it as the best gift they could leave, to provide peace of mind to their loved ones, that if they were no longer able to speak for themselves, their family would have comfort and peace of mind knowing what mums wishes were and knowing they'd followed them, to ensure all those who loved her were at peace with the decisions they'd made and knew mum would have been too.” Rachel adds
Throughout the week, Dove House will be out in the community raising awareness and encouraging participation. The hospice team will be present at locations across the region and are partnering with The Broken Orchestra for the The Things We Leave Behind installation at Humber Street Gallery, where visitors can experience an immersive journey of reflection alongside information about Dying Matters Week.
To support the public Dove House will be sharing a week long series of social media content, including expert advice and real-life stories, as well as providing a web page with useful information.
Many people avoid talking about death because they worry it may be upsetting or seen as “tempting fate.” However, Dove House is challenging these common misconceptions and encouraging people to view these
conversations as a positive and caring step.
By planning ahead and sharing wishes, individuals can reduce stress and uncertainty for their loved ones, while ensuring their own preferences are understood and respected.
To find out more, access resources and support during Dying Matters Week, visit: www.dovehouse.org.uk/dyingmatters
