Live for the Now by planning for the Future

An End of Life Doula (or me as the End of Life Coach) is a non-medical professional who provides holistic support to individuals and their families before, during, and after death.

My role is to be a compassionate companion, guide, and advocate. I focus on the emotional, spiritual, and practical needs of the dying person, aiming to honour their wishes and values. Think of me as a knowledgeable and supportive friend for the end-of-life journey, helping to reduce fear and bring a sense of peace and preparedness to one of life’s most significant transitions.

While we all share the goal of providing comfort and support, our roles are distinct and complementary.

• Medical vs. Non-Medical: Palliative care nurses and hospice staff are medical professionals. They manage pain, administer medication, and oversee the clinical care of a patient. As an End of Life Doula, I provide non-medical support. I do not perform any clinical tasks.
• Time and Focus: The medical system is often stretched, and while healthcare professionals are incredibly dedicated, their time with each patient can be limited. My role is entirely focused on you. I can dedicate extended, uninterrupted time to emotional support, legacy work, facilitating conversations, and ensuring your non-medical needs are met.
• A Complementary Role: I work alongside your medical team, not in place of them. I can help you understand medical information, communicate your wishes more clearly to doctors, and provide a consistent, comforting presence for you and your family throughout the process.

No. End-of-life planning is for everyone, at any stage of life.

Just as we plan for other major life events like marriage or having children, planning for the end of life is a profound act of care for yourself and your loved ones. By proactively documenting your wishes when you are healthy, you ensure your values are respected and lift a heavy burden from your family should you become unable to communicate them later. It’s about living with greater intention and peace of mind, knowing you are prepared for the future, whatever it holds.

No, and it’s very important to understand this distinction. I am not a qualified solicitor, financial advisor, or medical professional.

My role is to guide and empower you in your planning. For example:

• I can help you think through what you want to include in your Will or Advance Care Directive, so you are fully prepared for a meeting with a solicitor.
• I can provide resources and help you gather the necessary information for appointing a Power of Attorney, but the legal document must be completed and witnessed according to legal standards.

I am an educator, a facilitator, and a supportive guide, but I will always refer you to qualified professionals for legal, financial, and medical advice.

Holistic support means I consider all aspects of your wellbeing—not just the physical or practical. This can include:

• Emotional Support: Creating a safe space to explore fears, hopes, and feelings about dying.
• Spiritual Support: Helping you connect with your personal beliefs and values, regardless of your religious or spiritual background.
• Practical Support: Assisting with organising documents, planning funeral wishes, and navigating the healthcare system.
• Legacy Work: Helping you create a meaningful legacy project, such as a memory box, a letter to loved ones, or a collection of recipes, to ensure your story lives on.
• Family Support: Facilitating difficult conversations between you and your family to ensure everyone understands your wishes and feels supported.

Yes. This is one of the most valuable parts of my work. It’s completely normal for families to struggle with these conversations. They are often filled with love, fear, and a desire to protect one another.

As a neutral and compassionate third party, I can help create a safe and gentle environment for these discussions. I can facilitate a conversation where everyone feels heard, helping you articulate your wishes clearly and lovingly, and allowing your family to understand and ultimately honour them without future doubt or guilt.