As of 26 March, the way we arrange and deliver funerals has changed again in line with the latest government and industry guidelines. Crucially we are here for anyone who needs us 24/7 but with the following measures in place.
Arranging
- Our branches have temporary restricted public access
- We can no longer visit people in home
- All funeral arrangements are being handled remotely by video call or telephone
- Arranging administration has been moved online but where essential paperwork for registration is required, we will collect and return items by arrangement
Viewing
- We continue to offer viewing for up to 10 family members while we can, in strict adherence to social distancing guidance
Embalming
- If families are in self isolation, and while it is still possible, we can offer embalming services so funerals can be arranged at a later time
Funerals
- To adhere to government guidelines, attendance at funeral services will be restricted to close family members with live video links or recordings provided as an alternative
- We can offer our service room for up to four funerals a day, each allowing 10 mourners
- Social distancing prevents us from using our limousines, instead families have the option of the hearse going home and family following, or alternatively meeting the hearse at the crematorium or cemetery
Says Andrew Purves: “While we are having to change how we would normally support families throughout the loss of a loved one, we are nonetheless fully committed to providing the highest quality of service to both the deceased and their loved ones within the confines of current legislation.
“Our role is to ensure that loved ones get the send‐off they deserve and their families get to share in a celebration of their life – even if this is at a later date. It may not be what we envisaged a month or even last week, but it is the new reality and we are ensuring we carry our families’ wishes respectfully in line with government guidelines.
“We know saying goodbye to a loved one is hard at the best of times and we fully realise the impact these restrictions will have on families. Our response has been to explore creative solutions for families within the fast-changing limitations we face.
“We are here 24/7 for anyone who needs us, and our staff are working round the clock so that we can continue to carry out our services safely.”
