For generations, death has often been treated as something we should not talk about. We might say someone has “passed away” rather than died, for example. Conversations about funeral wishes can feel awkward and difficult decisions can be ignored until the last minute. However, attitudes towards death are changing …
Of course, death is not an easy subject. What’s evolving is a growing recognition that talking about death, dying and bereavement can be a practical and empathetic part of life.
Celebrating life
Increasingly, funerals are described as a celebration of life. In 2025, 58% of those who organised a funeral say it was a celebratory affair. At Austin’s Funeral Directors, we’ve seen an increase in these services.
16% of funeral organisers actively try to encourage something different or unusual at the service to make it more personal to the deceased. 11% even allow pets to attend!
Common ways to tailor the service to a loved one’s individuality include choosing music that’s personal to them, a particular dress code or a personalised coffin.
While funerals are becoming less formal and more personalised, talking about death and bereavement remains difficult …
From taboo topic to compassionate conversation
Bereaved people in the UK say:
- Not knowing how to talk about death is a factor in people feeling uncomfortable talking about death and dying (53%).
- Talking is a preferred way of celebrating the life of a loved one (46%).
- They have frequently avoided talking about their loss because they knew it would make other people uncomfortable (33%).
Every year, over 600,000 people die in the UK, leaving more than six million bereaved. 33% of grieving individuals feel they cannot talk about their loss or express their feelings to people around them. (Marie Curie)
Sometimes, being willing to talk is one of the most caring things we can do. It can be hard to know what to say. Often, simply listening is a huge help.
A safe place to talk
Bereavement and grief cafes are becoming popular as a welcoming, informal way for people to talk about loss and find peer support.
Austin’s Funeral Directors offers a bereavement café on Saturday mornings. If you or a loved one would value an open, honest conversation about grief and bereavement, we’re here for you.
You are welcome to call in or make an appointment to come in and speak to our friendly, supportive team.
