Last month we asked for teddies to comfort grieving kids, this month we appeal to FSJ readers to get ready, steady, sew to help make collecting a departed’s belongings a little less awful.
The hospital where her mother had just died handed Debbie Williams her mum’s personal effects in a plastic bag, as is standard operational procedure. Cold, clinical, and impersonal, somehow a plastic bag makes an already tragic moment that bit worse. Williams, who is end-of-life lead for Gloucestershire Health and Care NHS Trust (GHCNT), vowed to prevent others suffering the same experience.
“At a time when patients have died, it just feels very impersonal, [there’s] a lack of dignity,” she says. “No-one should have to carry their relative’s property home in a plastic bag, so I’m making it a mission it won’t happen.” Her idea to create a stock of fabric property bags made from scrap material to be used instead was warmly received. Sewing enthusiasts contributed an array of beautifully fashioned bags and the trust has not used plastic bags since 2022. But it’s running out and has launched a fresh appeal for contributions. “These bags have been hugely welcomed both by our staff and by relatives. They represent kindness and sympathy at a very difficult time,” William says.
So, who among FSJ readers is handy with a needle? We’re assured the pattern for a 63cm x 63cm (24in x 24in) bag is a doddle to follow. You can find it on the trust’s website: www.ghc.nhs.uk, Old curtains are ideal, but bags have been made from all sorts of offcuts.
Please run up a bag and send a picture to us at editorial@fsj.co.uk and we will feature your designs in the magazine and on social media.
Please send bags to:
End of Life Care,
Gloucestershire Health and Care NHS
Foundation Trust, Edward Jenner Court,
1010 Pioneer Avenue, Brockworth,
Gloucester, GL3 4AW.