Staff from Doncaster’s St John’s Hospice are taking their message into the community as part of Dying Matters Week, encouraging people to talk more openly about death, dying and bereavement.
On Monday 11 May, representatives from the Balby-based hospice will bring their Health Bus to Doncaster city centre, parking outside the Frenchgate Centre from 10am to 2pm.
The initiative forms part of the national Hospice UK Dying Matters campaign, which aims to break down the stigma surrounding conversations about end of life and grief.
The hospice team will be on hand throughout the day to offer practical advice, share information and signpost visitors to local services and support available across Doncaster. They will also work to challenge common misconceptions and encourage more open, honest discussions about death and dying.
Sarah Bell, Team Leader for the Community Specialist Palliative Care Team at St John’s Hospice, said:
“Talking about death, dying and bereavement can feel awkward or uncomfortable, and many people find it difficult to raise these topics with friends and family.
“We’re committed to helping break the stigma around talking about death and want to normalise these conversations. By bringing the Health Bus into the city centre, we hope to encourage local people to start those important discussions.”
She added:
“Our expert team will be available to provide helpful advice, challenge myths and connect people with the support they may need.”
Dying Matters Week runs from 4 May to 10 May and is a national campaign led by Hospice UK to create an open culture in which people feel able to talk about death, dying and grief.
Members of the public are encouraged to visit the Health Bus, ask questions and access support in a welcoming and informal environment.
Published: April 24, 2026