Chichester conference to address dementia and bereavement

LOSING a loved one is a traumatic life event, but for those with dementia it can be devastating, confusing and have the potential to complicate their condition.

The University of Chichester, in association with St Wilfrid’s Hospice, are hosting a conference on Wednesday 16 October entitled Facing Death and Bereavement – supporting people who have dementia.

It aims to create information and networking opportunities for those working with people with dementia who are facing death and bereavement. The day will be made up with workshops, covering spirituality, story-massage,and namaste care, and presentations from a number of speakers.

These include Nancy Preston, a Professor of Supportive and Palliative Care at the International Observatory on End of Life Care at Lancaster University, where she is also the programme director for Postgraduate Studies Also speaking is Gayle Henry, the Learning and Development Officer for the Dementia Services Development Centre at the Iris Murdoch Centre.

The event is being organised by Marie Price, below, a senior lecturer from the University of Chichester’s department of childhood, social work, and social care.

She said: “The effect of trauma from experiences such as bereavement can be heightened in those with dementia.

“Add to that potential communication and behavioural challenges, and it is plain to see that people with dementia need specialist and compassionate support when they are faced with death or bereavement. Our conference is a ‘must attend’ opportunity for those who work with people with dementia.”

Attendance at the conference costs £70, or £50 for concessions, and includes lunch. Places at the conference can be booked at https://store.chi.ac.uk.

For more about the continual professional development opportunities with the University of Chichester’s department of childhood, social work, and social care go to www.chi.ac.uk.