East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) colleagues were among those helping to encourage open and honest conversations about death, dying and bereavement at a special community event in Norwich.
The charity was represented by Wellbeing Lead Jodi Goldsmith and Play Specialist Heidi Foster at ‘Dying Matters 2026: Myth Busting Death, Dying and Bereavement’, which took place at The Forum.
The free event formed part of Hospice UK’s Dying Matters Week – a national campaign designed to break down the stigma surrounding conversations about death and dying – and was organised by Compassionate Communities Norfolk and Waveney.
Jodi and Heidi spent the day speaking with members of the public and representatives from other organisations about the work carried out at The Nook – EACH’s hospice in Framingham Earl.
Jodi said: “As part of the care we provide, it’s so important to maintain open channels of communication with families and keep talking about the issues surrounding bereavement, death and dying.
“That’s why an event of this nature was such a great opportunity, because it gave us the chance to network and have vital conversations about the work we do.
“There are undoubtedly difficult moments, but we also experience so much joy here. It can be a real challenge, but it’s also an absolute privilege to support families in their hour of need.”
EACH provides specialist nursing support, symptom management and end-of-life care, alongside emotional and therapeutic support from counsellors and art, music and play therapists.
Families using The Nook also benefit from facilities including a hydrotherapy pool, sensory room, outdoor play area and family accommodation, as well as a range of support groups and activities designed to help them feel secure, supported and nurtured.
Heidi added: “The event was interesting, humbling and thought-provoking, and it was a real pleasure to talk about the amazing care we provide here.
“Members of the public were curious about what we provide, and we were able to network with people from other organisations. It was a great opportunity.”
This year’s Dying Matters Week theme, ‘Let’s Talk About Death and Dying’, aims to encourage more open discussions within families, workplaces and communities. The event at The Forum took place on Thursday, 7th May.
