An afternoon chat about a subject many of us struggle to discuss.
This pilot session looks at how to make the most out of our lives.
Expect tips & advice, resources, refreshments and the wonderful HAC Singers will be performing led by Jessa Liversidge.
Facilitated by:
Dr. Hannah Coysh (GP with specialist interest in Living and Dying well, Independent Funeral Celebrant and Grief Coach) will deliver a gentle, practical workshop that helps make end of life conversations feel more natural and less overwhelming, offering simple ways to talk about what matters and ease the load for ourselves and those we love. We plan for holidays, careers, and milestones—but when it comes to the end of life, many of us avoid the conversations that matter most. This workshop offers a gentle space to explore how we can make those discussions feel more natural and less overwhelming. Together, we’ll look at simple, practical ways to talk about what matters, easing the load for ourselves and the people we care about. It’s an opportunity to approach these conversations with a little more clarity, calm, and confidence.
Libby Pearson (Creative writer and project facilitator with an emphasis on health and wellbeing) will offer Help and advice on “writing a history”- a session where people identify the information they would like others to know about in order for them to write/deliver a eulogy and have firm and truthful memories and representations.
Gareth Jenkins is a local portrait and documentary photographer who enjoys making and self-publishing photo books. Making these memento books is a simple process, even for those with little technical knowledge, and Gareth is keen others should give it a go. Too often our photographs remain on our phones or computers, rarely seen or shared, so Gareth believes photo books, featuring both text and images, provide wonderful resources to aid memories both personal and shared. They also make lovely gifts for families and friends. Have a chat with Gareth to look at examples of his books and discover just how easy it is for you to do the same. Gareth's involvement in the day is to help participants use photography in the future and/or photos they already have, to compile memory photo books or to collect and collate photos to share with loved ones. He will not be taking photos on the day.
Jaelithe Leigh-Brown is a Celebrant, Intuitive Guide, and the founder of The Open Minds Guild. She helps people navigate life's most tender thresholds—including grief, loss, and transition—through ceremony, coaching, and creative expression. Her approach is gentle, human, and rooted in her own lived experience of loss and rebuilding. Jaelithe teaches the popular class, Soul Canvas which helps people connect to themselves through meditation, writing and art.
This session is made possible with thanks to funding support from North Yorkshire Council Stronger Communities Inspire Grant