With statistics revealing that only 21% of people discuss their end of life preparations, a Shrewsbury funeral director is encouraging people to discreetly express their wishes now and save potential difficulties for their loved ones in the future.

The poll of 2,000 adults for the Dying Matters Coalition of care organisations indicated that only a small percentage discussed their end of life wishes, while only a third said they had written a will. Aubrey Kirkham, Director of Aubrey Kirkham Funeral Directors, has urged people to share their preferences with family members and friends to avoid placing additional pressures on them at an already difficult time.

“These statistics show that many people do still struggle to talk about end of life plans and share their wishes,” Aubrey Kirkham explained. “Coming to terms with the prospect of dying is hard for many, but it’s so important to make sure that loved ones know exactly how you want to do things once the time has come. This can not only offer some peace of mind, but can allow family members to understand your preferences and avoid any confusion at such an upsetting time.”

The Coalition, which was set up by the National Council for Palliative Care in 2009, also suggests that 51% of respondents said that they had not made their partner aware of their wishes.

“As a firm, we’re proud of the support that we offer our local community, and have devised a simple Expression of Wishes form which we’re offering complimentary. It’s discreet, can be completed by anyone, of any age, and it provides genuine peace of mind that your wishes will be followed when your time eventually comes,” Aubrey added.

The Expression of Wishes form is available from the Aubrey Kirkham Funeral Director offices in Shrewsbury or Welshpool, or from the Funeral Home in Four Crosses.

“Anyone is welcome to request a copy and we can send this over to them absolutely free of charge. They simply need to make a note of their dos and don’ts, wishes, and any wider preferences, and the form can then be filed away with their important documents. Rather like arranging insurance or making a will, it should provide a real sense of peace of mind and allow people to rest assured that they are making any arrangements as easy as possible for their families.”

For further information about Aubrey Kirkham Funeral Directors, or to request a copy of the Expression of Wishes form please call Shrewsbury 01743 368999, Welshpool 01938 555099, or the Funeral Home in Four Crosses on 01691 839292. Alternatively, please visit the website via the link.