WE are born, we live, we die. But what happens before we draw our last breath – presumably in the care of home somewhere?

This question is at the heart of Ship of Fools Theatre Company’s From The Cradle To The Bin. The play follows Mr Whitey, an affable English gent, who spends his final days living on the edge of a broken care system.

Through his encounters with inept carers, sneering owners and money-hungry family members, the gritty social comedy captures what happens when one is thrown onto life’s scrap heap.

“The play goes out to people who have relatives in care homes,” says Charles Shetcliffe, the company’s founder and artistic director. “Ultimately it’s a plea for our society not to forget their loves ones. It’s not always possible to be there all the time for someone but they are your family, the people closest to you."

Far from a sombre indictment of our society, the play harnesses humour, farce and the grotesque to probe difficult social issues.

“We deliver a powerful message but it is very light and funny,” insists Mark Winstanley, the company’s manager.

“We use comedy as a weapon. The show deals with the darker side of care but we never say that care is a bad thing. There are good places. We don’t take a moral high ground. If what you see resonates with you, you may have to ask yourself some questions. If you have nothing on your conscience it will make you laugh.”

The show will come to the Arts Centre on Wednesday, May 27 at 7.30pm. It will be followed by a Q&A session. Tickets are £13. To book call 01793 524481 or visit swindontheatres.co.uk.