It may not be a typical topic of conversation between strangers, but next week Islington residents are being invited to talk about death and dying over a cup of tea.

To mark Dying Matters Week, Age UK Islington will next week be hosting “Big Conversation” - and its Future Matters team will be on hand during the session to offer support and advice.

Andy Murphy, chief executive of the charity, said: “Having the Big Conversation can help you to live well and to make the most of life until the very end.

“With an ageing population and people living for longer with life limiting illnesses, discussing dying is increasingly important.”

Claire Henry, the chief executive of Dying Matters and the National Council for Palliative Care, said: “Talking about dying, death and bereavement is in everyone’s interests as it can help ensure that all of us can get the care and support we want, where we want it, at the end of our lives.

“Through being more confident in talking about dying, we can make a big difference.”

The event, complete with cups of tea, will take place on Thursday May 12 at Angel Central Shopping Centre between 10.30am and 2.30pm. No booking is required.