There are several topics that many people never want to discuss – death is often one. Planning for your own or a loved one’s death, especially if you are healthy and happy, can seem scary and might bring up a lot of emotions. However, it is important to remember that by planning for your death you are helping your loved ones know your final wishes and how to be prepared for when the time comes.

When planning for death, consider the following:

• If you have the option, where would you choose to die? – hospital, home, hospice or somewhere else entirely
• Who would you like by your side? – certain family members, friends or other special people in your life
• What clothes would you like to be dressed in? – favourite outfit, sports top, etc.
• Would you prefer to be cremated or buried?
• Do you want to plan your funeral and services? – funeral director, coffin, type of service, etc.
• Do you want anything special to be read or played at your service? – songs, hymns, poems, readings, etc.
• Do you have a preference for mourners to wear? – black, colours, a specific colour, etc.
• Do you have a preference for mourners to send flowers or donate to a charity of your choice?
  • Any specific type of flowers or specific charity to donate to?

You might also want to consider making or updating your will to ensure your money and possessions are distributed according to your wishes. Visit the Money Advice Service’s website to learn more about why you should make a will; DEBRA has also partnered with three suppliers to help members and supporters make a will free of charge.

Planning for death can sometimes be helpful in the process of coming to terms with the act of dying, particularly when that person has a life-limiting illness.

If your child is seriously ill, the Charlie Cookson Foundation may be able to help take away the financial stress of everyday living costs – from helping with mortgage payments, rent and utilities to providing food vouchers and covering other expenses.