Demystifying Death Practicalities: a workshop for Trans & Non-Binary People

Ever imagined a world where we could tend to those who have died in our communities and at our own pace and on our own terms? Ever dreamt of how our communities can weave new memories, collective care and new skills, by having greater involvement in the process after death?

This practical workshop [ 11am - 1pm] will demystify the process our bodies go through after death and demonstrate body care practices for tending to someone at home after their death. We will dispel myths, consider discomforts and address uncertainties. This workshop is aimed at trans and non-binary people and although the process is the same whatever the body there may be specifics that can be addressed. You will have the opportunity to practice on a clothed body if you wish and receive a copy of the Daisy Body Care Manual.

We are also offering an optional letter writing session in the afternoon[2 - 3:30pm]. This is one of the exercises facilitated by Pushing Up The Daisies in preparation for having our wishes met after our last breath. Taking active steps to having our after-death wishes known is particularly important for trans and non-binary people and we thought taking time for this collectively would give us courage. Some letter examples can be found here along with the Queer Funeral Guide, which suggests practical preparations for people who are worried about not having their sexuality or gender identity respected after death.

Author of "Slow Down when Someone Dies” Kate Clark will be leading the day and there will be copies of the book available to buy. A second facilitator who themselves is trans will be present throughout the body care workshop and will lead the letter writing.

We aim for this to be a safe space. Participants are welcome to take breaks at any time but we cannot provide emotional support. With great tenderness, we ask that participants are conscious of what they can reasonably manage in this space, take care of their own emotional needs and lean on their own support systems.

The venue is fully wheelchair accessible. Let us know anything that would help you to participate in the workshop. We want everyone to have access to this information - if finance is a barrier to you attending please contact kate@pushingupthedaisies.org.uk

Pushing Up the Daisies is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation SC046808