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Dying Matters Week

Dying Matters Week is a time to have important conversations about death and end of life care - let's break the taboo and start talking.

Monday

3–9

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEWeek containing May 8 (Monday-start)

OBSERVED INUnited Kingdom

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYHealth Conditions

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to start important conversations and bring awareness to an important topic during Dying Matters Week, which takes place from May 2-8. This week was first launched in the UK in 2009, with the goal of encouraging people to talk openly about death, dying, and bereavement. It's a time to reflect on the significance of end-of-life care and planning, as well as remembering those who have passed away. While this may not seem like a traditionally "fun" topic, it's one that can bring people closer together and help us appreciate the importance of living life to the fullest. Let's embrace this week with open hearts and minds!

TIMELINE

Dying Matters Week Timeline

National Council for Palliative Care

The National Council for Palliative Care identifies the need for more public discussion around death and dying.

Launch of Dying Matters Week

The inaugural Dying Matters Week takes place in the UK, creating a dedicated time for discussions about end-of-life topics.

Increased Participation

Participation in Dying Matters Week continues to grow, with more events hosted across the country to engage diverse populations in the conversation.

Global Recognition

Dying Matters Week gains international recognition with participation from countries outside of the UK.

Expansion of Initiatives

Dying Matters Week initiatives expand to include more resources for end-of-life planning and bereavement support.

Virtual Events Due to COVID-19

In response to the global pandemic, Dying Matters Week adapts to include virtual events and digital resources for safe participation.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Dying Matters Week

Host a death-themed movie night

Gather some friends and watch movies that explore the topic of death and dying. This can spark meaningful conversations and reflections on the importance of discussing end-of-life matters.

ATTEND

Attend a death café

Death cafés are gatherings where people can openly discuss death and dying in a safe and comfortable environment. Attend one during Dying Matters Week to join in on the conversation and share your thoughts and feelings on the topic.

WRITE

Write letters to loved ones

Take some time to write letters to your loved ones, expressing your feelings and thoughts about death and dying. This can be a meaningful way to open up communication and start important conversations with those closest to you.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a hospice or palliative care center

Spend some time volunteering at a hospice or palliative care center during Dying Matters Week. This can be a way to support and show appreciation for those who work in end-of-life care and to learn more about the services they offer.

HOST

Host a death positive discussion group

Gather a group of friends for a death positive discussion group where you can explore different perspectives on death and dying. This can be a thought-provoking and enlightening way to celebrate Dying Matters Week.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Dying Matters Week is Important

It offers support and resources for those affected by death and dying

Dying Matters Week provides a platform for organizations and individuals to share resources, support networks, and advice for those facing death or grieving the loss of a loved one. This can be incredibly valuable in helping people cope and find ways to honor their loved ones' memories.

It raises awareness about end-of-life issues

Dying Matters Week is an opportunity to have open and honest conversations about subjects that are often considered taboo, such as death and dying. By raising awareness, we can help people better understand these important topics and make more informed decisions for themselves and their loved ones.

It promotes planning for the future

During Dying Matters Week, there is a focus on making arrangements for end-of-life care, such as creating wills, advance healthcare directives, and discussing funeral wishes. This ensures that our loved ones know what we want in case we are unable to communicate our wishes ourselves.

Related holidays

SAT

Aug 2026

Awareness

Dying to Know Day

Dying to Know Day is your chance to talk about death and find out more - join the conversation and explore life's most difficult topic.

World Hospice and Palliative Care Day

Celebrate World Hospice and Palliative Care Day by showing your support for those facing serious illnesses - donate, volunteer, or simply spread awareness!

National Death Doula Day

On National Death Doula Day, we honor those who provide compassionate end-of-life care and support. Let's recognize their important role in our lives.

National Healthcare Decisions Day

Make sure your healthcare wishes are honored - take the time to learn more about National Healthcare Decisions Day and make your decisions today!

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