AN UNUSUAL two-day workshop to explore the reality of death is to take place in Stroud.

Although many may think the topic slightly morbid organisers promise it will offer participants ‘helpful and healthy’ insights into dying.

“I attended this workshop in Malvern last year and found it tremendously helpful and profoundly moving,” said Rodborough resident Nicola Builder, who is bringing the event, Death and the only beauty that lasts, to town.

“I was keen to invite Jan Parker here so that people from the area would have the opportunity to explore and reflect on death and dying.”

During the weekend participants will be invited to look at what death is, what a ‘good death’ is commonly understood to be and to discuss their experiences of loss.

The workshop will offer people the chance to consider how to work with the emotional consequences of loved ones dying, what happens as people die and how best to support them.

On the practical front there will also be a session to consider writing a will, planning a funeral and preparing an advance directive otherwise known as a living will.

Jan, who is a trained bereavement counsellor with 14 years of experience, said: “Hundreds of people have done this workshop now and people come for all sorts of reasons.

“I help people explore and be better prepared for this inevitable and mysterious part of life we call death.”

Death and the only beauty that lasts takes place Saturday, May 21 - Sunday, May 22 10am - 5pm at All Saints Hall in All Saints Road.

Places for the weekend are £95 or £75 for those on benefits or state pension.

To book a place or for more information visit janparker.co.uk or phone 07909 643 221.

The workshop is part of Dying Matters annual national awareness week.