Advice for the public

Minimising the risk of transmission

Funeral directors remain absolutely committed to supporting all bereaved people at this very difficult time, but are rightly concerned about increasing the risk of infection to both at-risk groups of mourners and to all those in key worker roles. Like supermarket workers and other essential services, funeral employees have a vitally important and sensitive job to do and so it is critical they are able to do it safely, by being able to stay within the social distancing rules.

Funerals should be arranged over the phone or via other electronic means, wherever possible. If a funeral must be arranged in person, please respect the social distancing guidance – keep two metres apart, wash hands frequently, and cough or sneeze into a tissue/crook of your elbow and limit the number of people attending in person to arrange the funeral.

Do not arrange a funeral in person if anyone involved has symptoms or should be self-isolating, in accordance with government advice. It is vital that we do all we can to reduce the spread of the virus and that funeral service employees (who are key workers) can remain healthy and able to continue supporting bereaved families.

If you wish to view the deceased person by visiting the Chapel of Rest, please make arrangements with your funeral director. Some may have restrictions in place that means this is not possible, or may require it to be at a specific times or with only limited numbers attending at any one time – and all from the same household. Those who at an increased risk of serious illness due to Coronavirus are strongly urged not to visit.

During the service, all mourners should remain two metres apart from anyone not living in their household at all times. Refrain from making physical contact with anyone outside of your household. Restrictions on numbers attending remain unchanged following publication of the Government’s COVID-19 recovery strategy on 11 May 2020.

There may be other changes too. For example, the gardens may be closed, it may not be possible to touch the coffin or for families to be bearers, the curtains may not be able to remain open during the service and all charitable collections should be done online.

Please visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for further information.