The Festival will be officially launched by Compassionate Gateshead with Mayor Cllr Freda Geddes, special guests and community experts talking about their experience of grief and the need to talk more openly about death and dying.

Best-selling author Ann Cleeves will speak about her work and inspiration for her writing. She will be signing copies of her books from 10am. Lili Myers, the widow of Hairy Biker Dave will speak about life with and without her husband and use her story to inspire and help others navigate through grief and loss. Dr Kathryn Mannix is a world-renowned palliative care physician, author, and speaker known for helping the public better understand dying, death, and compassionate care through storytelling and education.

The launch will also feature some of the activities being put on during the Festival
including several short films and will culminate with Mark Deeks talking about the
power of music to improve wellbeing, and mental health culminating in a premier
performance by Sing United. This event will leave you moved, informed and inspired.

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This event does not require booking, is free and open to all ages, however, please be aware that some parents may not find all the content suitable for children as death and grief will be spoken about openly.

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