Public Service Announcement - Covid-19

As you are no doubt aware, we are currently in the midst of a global pandemic caused by the outbreak of Covid-19.In order to be as responsible as possible in carrying out our services, we have been considering the potential effect on upcoming funeral services, arranged and yet to be arranged, which will be taking place over the coming months. We would like to reassure you that we are totally committed to continuing to provide support for the bereaved and caring for your loved one during this time of uncertainty and disruption.In order to protect your family and everyone else involved in the arrangement and carrying out of funeral services, we have a number of infection control options in line with recent advice given by Public Heath England. We are also in touch with our partners such as crematoria and churches to ensure we can comply with any restrictions and procedures that they implement.As gatherings such as funeral services can pose the risk of further spread of the Coronavirus, we may need to consider taking some of the following actions:

• Funeral arrangements may need to be made entirely over the phone, with limited in-person contact required for the completion of forms, which will be emailed where possible. Any meetings would be required to take place at our offices as opposed to the home visits we are normally happy to do.
• It is possible that the service aspect of a funeral may have to be cancelled, with cremations or burials taking place without attendance. If this is the case we will ensure that, if desired, a memorial service takes place when the risk posed by the Coronavirus has passed. In all cases we will try to provide options other than attending, such as live streaming services for remote viewing and recording of services.
• The number of mourners able to attend a funeral service may be limited, meaning that only close family and friends should expect to be able to attend in person.
• Mourners in high risk groups should think carefully about attending a service.
• Service times at crematoria may be adjusted and reduced to allow for increased demand.
• Travel by limousine may be unavailable, meaning that family members will need to use their own transportation to and from funeral service venues.
• While we will do the best we can to ensure this is not the case, viewings in the chapel of rest may need to be restricted, this could mean that visits will be limited to closed coffins/caskets.
• Receptions/gatherings after funerals may need to be cancelled.
• Floral tributes arranged by us on your behalf may be limited as many flowers are imported from outside the UK.
• We may be required to handle the deceased differently in cases where the Coronavirus is a possibility. This will likely mean that handling of the deceased is kept to an absolute minimum.

In many ways we will be guided by rules and restrictions adopted by outside organisations, such as churches and crematorium operators, and Public Health England.We will continue to keep everyone updated as the situation develops.For now we would ask anyone who needs to speak to us to avoid calling in at the office but please phone or email instead to arrange any necessary meetings.Thank you all for your understanding at this challenging time, your comfort is our top priority.