Talking about death and dying and making sure we have made provisions for our family and those closest to us is not a topic of conversation we all rush to have. However our reluctance to talk about this subject often leaves us and those we leave behind ill prepared for the future.
Talking about death doesn’t bring death closer – look at is as planning for life. Fareed Kazi, a Wills and Probate solicitor at B Legal said “A lack of communication and conversation is perhaps the most important reason why peoples’ wishes go ignored or unfulfilled”.
To emphasise our commitment in providing the public with a valued legal service and also to encourage a more open discussion B Legal has recently joined the Dying Matters Coalition. The aim of the Dying Matters Coalition is to support changing knowledge, attitudes and behaviours towards death, dying and bereavement.
The Dying Matters Coalition was set up in 2009 by the National Council for Palliative Care (NCPC). There now 15,000 members of this Coalition which include organisations across the NHS, voluntary and independent health and care sectors, faith and community organisations, the legal profession and the funeral sector.
“Talking about dying with your family and friends and seeking professional legal advice is essential if you want your wishes to be carried out on your death” states Fareed. “It will make things easier for those you love and care for and will help avoid any complications when dealing with your property and other assets after your death”.
Fareed strongly advises people to start talking about these important issues to ensure their assets are protected and also that they maintain control over how their wealth is managed and distributed during their life and on death. At the very least we should all look to discuss making a Will and consider whether we require Lasting Powers of Attorney to manage our finances and/or health and welfare should we become unable or incapable of doing so ourselves. We should think about our future planning for long term health and care requirements.
For more information visit Dying Matters (www.dyingmatters.org) or contact Fareed Kazi a solicitor in our Wills, Probate and Private Client team to discuss your affairs on tel: 01628 496669 or email: fkazi@b-legal.co.uk
