A DORSET hospice is holding a conference ito encourage more open discussion of dying, death and bereavement.

End of Life – Integrating Death into Dying will take place at AFC Bournemouth on May 17.

Hosted by Poole’s Lewis-Manning Hospice, the event is being held as part of Dying Matters Awareness Week, which aims to encourage individuals and organisations to take simple steps that could make a big difference to dying or bereaved people.

The conference includes workshops and presentations addressing the taboo of dying and exploring advance care planning from the patient’s point of view. There will also be guest speakers .

Tickets for the conference are £50 and can be bought by ringing 01202 701000.