Memorial Woodlands: workshop to guide people through wills and funeral planning
A workshop giving independent advice on wills and funeral planning is set to be held at Memorial Woodlands, Earthcott Green, near Bristol, on Wednesday 25 March.
The session is part of a series of events in partnership with Gentle Dusk, who specialise in end-of-life planning and guidance, and is suitable for both professionals and members of the public.
It will cover the importance of helping people prepare with confidence, including why a properly laid out will is essential and practical tips for planning funerals.
The event will be led by Gentle Dusk founder, health psychologist, Mireille Herbert Hayden, and Gentle Dusk associate, Maria Piroli, lead in LPAs, wills and funeral planning.
“The workshop will cover key questions such as whether you need a solicitor to draw up a will, easy steps to setting one up, how to review an existing will, and the important factors to consider when planning a funeral,” said Mireille.
"Our aim is to make these processes simple and approachable, so people feel confident that their wishes are clearly documented and that their loved ones are supported. It is also suitable for those in the care sector who are often in the front line with individuals and families when planning these things.”
"Participants always tell us that the sessions are very helpful and informative. The question-and-answer section at the end is particularly valuable, as it allows individuals to get guidance tailored to their own circumstances and feel reassured about the decisions they’re making.”
Last month, Gentle Dusk held a successful workshop on Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) at Memorial Woodlands, guiding participants through the key elements and essential steps of completing the documents correctly.
Participants described the sessions as “really clear, helpful and useful” with “very good presenters,” and said the presentations had helped them realise the importance of having a will and putting in place funeral wishes.
The workshops are part of a series of events planned by Bristol Memorial Woodland Trust, a charitable organisation that manages the 100-acre nature reserve and burial site near Thornbury.
They build on the launch of the Trust’s end-of-life resources, with North Bristol NHS Trust and Gentle Dusk partnering to create and distribute two booklets helping people navigate the practical and emotional issues following the death of a loved one.
The workshop will take place on Wednesday 25 March, from 2pm–4pm. Places must be booked in advance.
For more information visit: www.bristolmemorialwoodlandtrust.org, where details of upcoming events and the Trust’s end-of-life resources can also be found.
