Blythe House Hospice is delighted to host valuable free training sessions open to everyone, designed to support people in understanding and managing the challenges that come with end-of-life care and bereavement.

Originally developed by the North Lancashire Compassionate Communities Group, including St John’s Hospice, this training addresses a recognised gap in information and guidance about the end-of-life journey. It provides essential insights into both the emotional and practical aspects of caring for a loved one and what to do after they have died.

At Blythe House Hospice, we are committed to engaging with the wider community, ensuring people feel prepared and supported when facing a life-limiting illness in their family or community.

What the training involves – The session lasts for three hours and includes five short films, each followed by a facilitated discussion. Topics covered include:

• Planning for the future
• To care and accompany
• How to say goodbye
• Understanding and recognising that someone is dying
• The ‘new normal’ after someone has died

Why attend? This training offers essential skills, such as:

• Starting and holding conversations about end-of-life care
• Gaining confidence in understanding what is likely to happen and how to offer support
• Learning how to navigate daily life after losing a loved one

Numbers are kept small to allow for meaningful discussions in a safe, confidential space.

What previous participants say about the session:

“How lovely to be in a room of diverse people so willing to share their experiences, a wonderful gift to receive and be able to share. Thank you for strengthening our communities.”

“Very helpful, both practically and emotionally. Has given me more appreciation of death as a universal experience and how we can support others.”

“Beautiful, reflective, emotive, safe and powerful. Thank you.”

“Session was for anyone, regardless of role/work/age etc. I found it extremely fulfilling and interesting. A lovely group of people and knowledgeable facilitators made for interesting discussion and reflection.”

“Amazing facilitators who supported with knowledge and care. So grateful for the safe space to think and acknowledge self and action I can take to show kindness. Thank you so much.”

“Really thought provoking around think of who would be a ‘3:00 am friend’ and whose ‘3:00 am’ friend I could be.”

“Brilliant training for all, would really recommend to others. Thank you.”

“Feel much clearer and more positive about death and all the elements that surround it.”

“Really helpful information – particularly beneficial to learn about both practical and emotional aspects of death.”

“People felt able and comfortable to open up and share personal stories.”

“Fantastic training for everyone. A brilliant mix of practical advice and emotional guidance, all within a supportive space. Thank you.”