The event is set to take place throughout all of May and will host free events across Sheffield to explore conversations on why life, loss and death matter. 

It will take place in locations ranging from community centres, woods and places of worship, where people can enjoy participating in workshop exhibitions, creative sessions, and poetry writing.

A representative of the organiser, Compassionate Sheffield said: “It’s important to talk about death, dying and loss because it’s something we all experience, its one thing we all have in common, yet we often hide away from it. It impacts us all, yet it has become taboo to talk about.

“By being more open about the topic and exploring it in a compassionate way, we can build our confidence in how to navigate and support each other through this important part of life.”

The ‘Sheffield Life, Loss and Death’ Festival is intended to help participants explore the topic of death, such as introducing the concept to young children or helping those who have lost loved ones contemplate personal experiences. 

A participant from last year’s festival which was titled ‘Dying Matters’ said: “Being part of this has radically changed how I think about living, dying and communicating with others about death.”

Another participant added: “I have been struggling quite a bit lately with fear of my own mortality and not knowing what happens when we die but this session really helped to diminish my worries.”

The first event is called “The Gifts We Leave” and is set to take place on 5 May. The event encourages participants to bring keepsakes and share anecdotes of grief. The event will be led by singer-songwriter Yunn. The festival will then finish with ‘Sheffield Life, Loss and Death Festival Closing Event’ on the 31 May.

To make a booking, please visit: www.compassionate-sheffield.co.uk/life-loss-and-death-festival