Joking Grim Reaper to help Age Concern North Tyneside

Jan 15 2009 by Tony Henderson, The Journal

A JOKING not-so-Grim-Reaper will liven up an event designed to help people prepare for their own end.

A top 10 of favourite funeral songs will be compiled and there will also be a bell ringer calling “last orders.”

Age Concern North Tyneside is holding the special Saturday morning event on January 24 for people over 50 to think ahead about practical end-of-life issues.

The aim is to remove as much stress as possible for loved ones in the after-death situation.

“A lot of people need practical information on the subject but we do not want it to be a gloomy event,” said Age Concern events co-ordinator Lesley Turner.

“It is a good idea to make preparations so that your family knows what you want and to make things easier for those who are left behind.”

The Grim Reaper will sport a pink feather boa with flowers draped on the scythe.

Lesley is collecting jokes on the subject for the reaper to crack.

She has also started to ask people what songs they have heard at funerals and what they would like for their own service.

Jill Davison, Age Concern information centre manager, said: “A lot of the people who contact us are very interested in planning ahead, to make sure their family and loved ones are cared for and put to the minimum distress when the time comes.

“It can be a sensitive subject to discuss with family and friends so we have brought together the most useful information for event.”

There will be a series of short informal talks on wills, funeral plans and paying for care, plus displays and leaflets on different aspects and opportunities to pick up more information or make follow-up appointments if needed.

New Age Concern Life Books will also be available in which people can enter all details on finance, social, work, care, health, legal and other matters which will be needed by their representatives.

Lesley said: “People’s reactions to this subject are mixed. Some want to prepare but others don’t want to think ahead. But it need not be depressing and we are taking a lighter-hearted approach.”

The Last Orders event will be held from 10am-1pm on January 24 at the Bradbury Centre, 13 Saville Street West, North Shields.

Lesley is asking for nominations for funeral songs on (0191) 280-8498.