As a patron of Dying Matters Rutland, Dr Sarah Furness has launched a new year's challenge to get people talking about death.

There is a lot to think about, even if doing so is not comfortable.

Would you prefer life to be prolonged at all costs or is comfort and quality of life most important to you? Have you made a will?

Dying Matters in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland hopes to encourage people to normalise talking about the inevitable and putting plans in place for yourself and loved ones.

'Making a will is the obvious one,' said Dr Sarah Furness, 'but there are some little things your loved ones can't know that will also help - the kind of funeral you would like, who you want to look after your affairs when you need support, even what to do about all those passports we have and can never quite remember.'

The Lord Lieutenant wants to challenge people in Rutland to 'take one practical step to ensure your loved ones understand what matters most to you, so they can carry out your wishes.'

In May 2026, an event will take place to make some of these early steps.

'Dead Easy: A Guide to the Inevitable' is designed to make end of life preparation accessible, straightforward and comforting by providing practical tools and expertise to help participants gain peace of mind and confidence in planning ahead.

Dr. Hilary Fox, Chair of Dying Matters Rutland, explained: 'Too often, conversations about death happen too late, leaving families overwhelmed and unprepared.

'Our aim is to change this by creating a safe, open space where people can explore the practical, emotional, and legal realities of preparing for the end of life.

'We strive to promote open and stigma-free discussions around death and dying, creating an environment where such conversations are both welcome and encouraged.

'By providing comprehensive and practical guidance on end-of-life planning, we aim to equip participants with the knowledge necessary for making informed decisions about their futures.'

A panel of experts, including a funeral director, lawyer and end-of-life counsellor, are ready to address questions and clarify important procedures to help attendees better understand the process.

The ultimate goal of 'Dead Easy' is to enhance community awareness and help alleviate the emotional and administrative burden that families face after bereavement.

Find out more about Dying Matters Rutland and what they do by clicking here.