NAFD welcomes Fuller Inquiry call for sector’s statutory regulation
The Inquiry found that many people believe – or assume – that the sector is already regulated, and that not anyone can set themselves up as a funeral director
The NAFD has welcomed the Independent Inquiry into the Crimes of David Fuller’s call for the statutory regulation of funeral directors.
News comes after the Inquiry published an interim report earlier this month into its Phase 2 investigation into care of deceased people in non-hospital settings, such as funeral homes.
Sir Jonathan Michael, chair of the Inquiry, said: “I had originally intended to publish my findings and recommendations on the funeral sector as part of the Inquiry’s Phase 2 Report. I have, however, expedited the Inquiry’s work in this area, in light of the recent distressing reports of neglect in the funeral sector.
“For most people, their experience of funeral services happens at some of the most difficult times in their lives. They are vulnerable in their grief and distress. We often trust our recently deceased into the care of funeral directors, expecting that they will be treated with kindness, dignity and respect.”
He added: “Based on the Inquiry’s examination of the funeral sector, it is fair to say that, in most cases, this is true. The funeral directors I have met in conducting this Inquiry have been caring and professional. However, sadly, there are exceptions.”
The Inquiry found that many people believe – or assume – that the sector is already regulated, and that not anyone can set themselves up as a funeral director.
According to Michael, his hope is that this interim report will assist both the government and the funeral sector to “take steps that assure the public that care in the funeral sector is fit for purpose”, and that a regulatory regime is enforced to rule out any form of abuse that compromises the security and dignity of the deceased.
Andrew Judd, CEO of NAFD, said: “The NAFD welcomes and shares the Fuller Inquiry’s call for an independent regulator for the funeral profession. The vast majority of funeral directors are compassionate, and operate with integrity to extremely high standards – and we are pleased that has been recognised by the Inquiry.
“However, we have always been acutely aware of the limits of voluntary regulation and stand ready to support the government in its next steps to propose the right regulatory structure; we would like to ensure it includes a robust code of practice, a requirement for Continuous Professional Development, independent redress and a comprehensive inspections regime. It will also be important that it is proportionate and able to be met by businesses of different sizes and structures to preserve consumer choice.”
