Last updated 2nd July 2020
Whether a death is directly linked to COVID-19 or not, all aspects of arranging a funeral during the current Coronavirus pandemic have unfortunately been impacted by rapidly changing rules and restrictions related to funerals.
We will keep this blog post continually updated as the situation and government advice changes. At White Rose Modern Funerals we will always endeavour to retain as much normality as possible, both in how we engage with our families during the planning of a funeral and on the actual day of the funeral service.
Changes to the process for registering a death:
The Coronavirus Act 2020 has been passed with modifications to the death registration processes including:
- Deaths will be registered by telephone and documents sent electronically.
Temporary restrictions for funeral services:
- Most crematoria in our area – SW London / Surrey – are restricting the size of gatherings, typically 16 – 30 people may attend (for specific numbers see our Crematoria page or call us on 020 3281 1045) – this is a strict limitation and cannot be exceeded.
- Typical additional restrictions (which vary for each crematorium) are:
- Face masks may be required
- No family pallbearers
- No access to waiting room (preference is to wait in your vehicle until the start of the service)
- No approaching the coffin
- Adhere to current social distancing guidelines (2m distance from other attendees)
- Curtains must close at the end of the service
How White Rose Modern Funerals are addressing the current situation:
- We can conduct family meetings virtually by WhatsApp or Zoom video and telephone / conference calls in accordance with guidelines issued by government for minimising the risk of transmission.
- We are meeting families in their gardens if spacing allows and also have spacious seating within our office if required.
- We can create an online tribute page that helps to keep everyone informed of the funeral details, even if not attending – families are finding this really useful.
- We can discreetly video the service for you if required
Outside of this pandemic, we have helped many families when their need has been for just a small gathering – and seen many personal, simple, meaningful farewells, that have helped to give a family a sense of peace. So we are well placed to help families through this turbulent period.
Many families are considering a memorial at a later date when larger gatherings are allowed. To plan a memorial at a later time when the initial grief and shock are less raw, is far less pressure.
These times are beyond tough for familes, we will do our utmost to help you, whilst adhering to current guidelines and restrictions for the safety of everyone,
If you need to plan a funeral, please call 020 3281 1045 to speak to Jacqui or Nick – we can talk everything through with you.
