The South West will host a State forum in August which will delve into an array of discussions surrounding death, dying, caring and grieving.
It is the initiative of the volunteer-run South West Compassionate Communities Network and titled 'Let's Build a Compassionate and Connected WA'.
The Mail will be running a series of stories on the topic in the lead up to the forum. The first explains the concept of 'Compassionate Communities'.
A passionate network of South West volunteers has joined a global movement to encourage people to speak more openly about death and better support those who are grieving.
The Compassionate Communities movement aims to promote and integrate social approaches to dying, death and bereavement in everyday life.
The network is growing worldwide and the South West established its own almost five years ago.
Since then, its volunteers have initiated a range of programs including a Community Connector Program which links trained volunteers with those who are dying and need practical, social or emotional support.
"Some people may need help filling out forms, to cry over a cup of tea or their dog may need walking - it's these simple acts of connection that make our community even more compassionate when people need it most," South West Compassionate Communities Network Deputy Chair Leanne O'Shea said.
As a social worker my theoretical understanding of loss and grief is solid but emotionally, my heart is broken
- Lanie Pianta
The network also promotes community education on end-of-life planning including a pilot program which is introducing grief support activities into three schools.
Other Network volunteers host fortnightly Death Cafes where people gather socially to break the taboo surrounding death over a slice of cake.
Social worker Lanie Pianta is a strong advocate for the Network and its values. She was caring for her 94-year-old mum full time up until she entered residential aged care recently. Her mum is living with dementia.
"About four years ago I attended a Dying to Know Day event and I reconnected with some of the network members," she said.
"I've treasured the support they've given me as I care for my mum, it's been invaluable.
"As a social worker my theoretical understanding of loss and grief is solid but emotionally, my heart is broken.
"I'd encourage you to attend the upcoming forum. I've witnessed 'ordinary' people act in extraordinary ways in the context of death and dying.
"It's so important to come together at a grassroots level to support each other, to learn how to have those tough conversations, how to plan for the inevitability of death and how we can grieve in healthier ways. It strengthens us, our networks and communities."
Mrs O'Shea said Western culture had a tendency to avoid the discomfort of grief and soften conversations about death.
"This forum is important and we are proud Bunbury is hosting this event to share the powerful change that can take place when we bring people together in one big room to hear about best practice examples from around the world," she said.
The forum will be held at the Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre on Saturday, August 7. For more on the forum and other associated Dying to Know Day activities visit www.comcomnetworksw.com or follow the Network on facebook.
