Co-op Funeralcare prepares for upcoming changes to funerals

Central England Co-op Funeralcare has announced it is “working around the clock” to ensure its funeral homes and colleagues are ready for any upcoming changes to the way funerals are organised and held.

The company said colleagues have been working 24 hours a day to support families at their time of need after a range of changes had to be put in place following advice and guidance from the government.

While these changes are still currently in place, preparations are now being made ahead of any potential alterations to the way funerals are planned and services are held in the coming weeks.

This includes ensuring extra social distancing measures are being put in place at funeral homes to keep colleagues and clients safe such as hand sanitising stations and continued innovation with the use of phone and email to help families plan the funeral of a loved one while also still being able to see people in person via an appointment.

Hazel Moss, head of funeral, said: “As a Society, we will continue to work with the guidelines issued and operate in a Covid-19 secure environment.In line with government advice we will be monitoring the position as the relaxation of controls takes place and we will take a pragmatic view of when and how to re-open our homes to the general public.”

“We are currently seeking the fitting of screens in reception areas and ways to maintain social distancing in offices and, when the time is right, how we operate when we open our funeral homes again.”

She added: “We are doing this in the interests of keeping everyone safe and well, both for our colleagues and the communities in which we work.”

The funeralcare provider said it will also be keeping a close eye on guidance related to the number of mourners able to attend funerals and will advise families accordingly based on the local rules and regulations.