Many people say they would like a “good death”, but few have the chance to talk about what that really means for them, or how to plan ahead. This October, we are bringing people together in Harpenden for a relaxed, supportive afternoon to explore these questions.
Creating space for honest conversations
Thinking ahead – a conversation about future care is a free community event designed to help people reflect on their own wishes for future care, understand the choices available to them, and feel more confident supporting someone they care about.
The session will explore what a “good death” can mean, both personally and practically, and how planning ahead can help ensure that people’s preferences are known, understood and respected.
Understanding future care choices
Dr Bethan Rees, Clinical Director from Harpenden Primary Care Network, and Dr Sarah Klinger from Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care will talk through the benefits of tools such as Advance Care Planning and the ReSPECT form, and explain how these can help people communicate their wishes and preferences for future care.
Staff from Rennie Grove Peace will also be on hand to explain the support available locally and answer questions in a warm and reassuring setting.
A relaxed, welcoming afternoon
Whether you are thinking about your own future wishes, supporting a loved one, or simply want to understand more about end-of-life care, the event offers a safe space to ask questions and talk openly about death and dying.
Talking openly about death and dying helps ensure that people’s preferences and wishes are understood, respected and acted upon. When we make space for these conversations, we help people feel safer and more supported at the end of their lives.
The event takes place on Thursday 8 October 2026, from 2pm to 4pm, with doors opening at 1.45pm, at Bennet’s Club, 21 Leyton Road, Harpenden, AL5 2HU.
It is free, drop-in and open to everyone. You do not need to RSVP, but registering in advance will help us plan for the afternoon.
Event details
Date: Thursday 8 October 2026
Time: 2pm to 4pm (doors open at 1.45pm)
Venue: Bennet’s Club, 21 Leyton Road, Harpenden, AL5 2HU
The event is free, drop-in, and open to all members of the community. Refreshments will be available.
While RSVP is not essential, attendees can choose to do so to help the organisers plan for numbers: Thinking Ahead RSVP
The event is free, drop-in and open to all.
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