Dying Matters Expo – Advanced Care Plans

Date: 12/09/2026
Time: 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Venue: Upper Hutt Library, 844 Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt

11:30am Monique – End of Life Doula talks Advanced Care Plans

• This workshop will be led by Monique Ballinger – Certified ELDAA Doula and Funeral Celebrant
• It’s never too early to plan. Create an Advance Care Plan, because every voice matters—even when it can’t be heard.
• Join Monique to learn why an Advance Care Plan (ACP) is important and how it ensures your healthcare wishes are known if you are ever unable to speak for yourself. She will guide you through completing your own ACP booklet, helping you record what matters most to you so your loved ones and healthcare team can honour your wishes. An ACP is for everyone, regardless of age or stage of life.

• This workshop will guide you through the process of creating an Advance Care Plan. Together, we’ll explore the important non-clinical aspects of your care and wellbeing, including your personal values, what matters most to you, who you would like around you, where you would prefer to be cared for, and how you would like your wishes honoured if you were to become seriously ill, incapacitated, or approaching the end of life. An Advance Care Plan helps communicate your wishes to your family, friends, and those involved in your care, so everyone understands what is important to you. It complements any clinical planning you undertake with your healthcare team. This interactive workshop includes a workbook that you can begin completing during the session and continue at home, with support from both your healthcare professionals and the people who know and care about you. Although the topic is serious, an Advance Care Plan is designed for both young and old so the workshop has been designed to be welcoming, engaging, and enjoyable, with plenty of opportunities for discussion, reflection, and practical activities.

RSVP and questions to [email protected]