Good Death Week aims to get people thinking about how they would like to go through a series of events

Scots are being asked to consider thinking about how they would like to die.

Good Death Week invites people to ask themselves what a good death means to them through events, activities and online discussion.

The week, which takes place between 14 and 20 May, is organised by Good Life, Good Death, Good Grief, an alliance of Scottish organisations and individuals working to make Scotland a place where there is more openness about death, dying and bereavement.

People are encouraged to participate in whatever way they see fit, even by just asking the question of a friend or family member.

Robert Peacock, development manager for Good Life, Good Death, Good Grief said it is important that people think about death.

“Being prepared for the inevitable is one way to help family and friends to cope at the end of your life, however difficult the conversation may be to have,” he said.

“Talking about it does not bring the event nearer, but it may help you reach decisions that are very important, like where you want to die, what medical interventions you might want or not want, how you want to be cared for in your dying days. The time to discuss that is when you are fit and healthy, not when a crisis point is reached.”

The alliance is encouraging organisations to host events to mark the week. One popular idea is the Death Lunch, with the alliance able to provide a conversation menu for download. The guide provides three courses of conversation starting questions, and the alliance is offering a limited number of £50 grants for people to host their own lunch.

In previous years, people have also created Before I Die… walls – spaces on a blackboard or noticeboard where people can reveal their wishes of things they would like to do before they die.

An online version of the Before I Die wall has been running for five years, and features final wishes such as to see the Great Barrier Reef or to go on an elephant safari.