![](https://greatwesternairambulance.com/wp/wp-content/webpc-passthru.php?src=https://greatwesternairambulance.com/wp-content/uploads/Dan-and-Steve.jpg&nocache=1)
Father and son set to take on the Bristol 10k for the charity that saved a family members life!
April 30, 2019![](https://greatwesternairambulance.com/wp/wp-content/webpc-passthru.php?src=https://greatwesternairambulance.com/wp-content/uploads/Girlguides-at-the-GWAAC-Airbase.jpg&nocache=1)
GWAAC launches partnership with Girlguides
May 20, 2019This week (May 13th – 19th 2019) is Dying Matters Week, which we are proud to support. The aim of this week is to change public attitudes and behaviour around dying, death and bereavement. Here at GWAAC we are faced with the sad reality that some of the people we are called to will not survive. As well as providing critical care when it is needed most, we believe it’s important to support the friends and families of loved ones in any way we can.
This year, the organisers of Dying Matters Week are asking the question ‘are we ready?’
Talking about death
An important first step that you can take when thinking about this difficult topic, is to talk to your loved ones about your final wishes. It is never too early to discuss your wishes, you do not have to be older to be organised. The earlier and the more you talk about death related matters the more normal and easier it will be. Talk openly about your wishes for things such as your funeral; for example you could discuss the music choices or the dress code you’d prefer.
Having these conversations may seem hard, but they will make it much easier for your friends and family when the time comes.
Planning your funeral
When it comes to organising a funeral, many people choose to honour their loved one by collecting donations for their chosen charity. For others, talking about their loved one and sharing stories is an important part of the grieving process. In order to help you cherish their memory if you are in this position, we have introduced the Sycamore Fund, and online portal which enables you and your friends and family to share pictures and memories with each other.
Find out more about our Sycamore Fund here.
Writing a Will
Something that is not discussed enough is the topic of writing a Will. Almost two thirds of adults in the UK do not have a Will. A Will is an important document as it ensures your wishes will be followed, and helps family and friends to do the same. Having a Will in place also ensures that your assets will go to the right place, and not to the Crown or the government.
When somebody dies without a Will this can cause a lot of heartache for their loved ones, as they may be unsure what to do.
Writing your Will is not an easy task, but is easier than many people think.
Once you have remembered those close to you, many of our supporters also choose to leave a gift in their Will.
We would be honoured if you chose to remember us in this very special way, but more importantly you could be helping the future of those close to you; your family, friends, colleagues and neighbours.
We’ve put together some resources to help you when thinking about writing your Will, and should you decide to leave a charity gift in your Will too, we are also here to help.