GUIDELINES REGARDING CORONAVIRUS - 21 March 2020

In response to the coronavirus pandemic, whilst the responsibility for welfare lies solely with us the individual Celebrant, guidelines have been provided offering a coherent approach to help protect, not only the health and welfare of the bereaved people we serve, but also fellow professionals, our own families and friends, wider society and ourselves. It is our duty to support the NHS and society by helping to flatten the curve of the spread of Covid-19, as well as ensuring we take proportionate measures to protect outselves. As a Celebrant I can only do my best and do right with your support and understanding.

I will ensure I undertake strict hygiene practices, clear communication and guidance to my clients and families and continue to be compassionate and empathetic during these unprecedented times. As we all recognise, the situation we face is dynamic and we must heed the ongoing updates by our Government and appropriate bodies.

With the need for social distancing I will be conducting family meetings remotely, by phone, Skype, FaceTime, WhatsApp, email, by whatever remote means is appropriate. The shaking of hands, or hugging others, must not take place and you are encouraged to invite only close family or friends to the ceremony, ensuring as few people to attend as possible. If the ceremony is a funeral service, then I can support you with the planning of a memorial event to be held after the pandemic. In funeral chapels mourners must sit well spaced in the chapel. Many crematoriums and chapels are already reducing the number of seats.  Mourners may need to wait in cars or stand outside chapels as waiting rooms may be closed. Funeral directors may cease providing limousines and they or crematorium staff may be required to wear face masks and gloves on the day. Curtains in most chapels will be closed as part of the Committal, final goodbye, and families will not be allowed to touch the coffin, or place flowers or objects with the coffin in the chapel. Only funeral director bearers will be used to transport the coffin into the chapel. There will be no hymn books or song sheets in the chapels. Where there are screens perhaps the lyrics could be displayed. 

ALTERNATIVES TO TRADITIONAL:

You could have a small number of attendees and where available webcasting for those not attending to observe. A recording may be able to take place of a real time ceremony and a video and audio copy provided as agreed with the funeral director and family. There could be a direct cremation with a memorial ceremony at a future date. 

There is so much for us all to take in at this difficult time. My promise is to do what I can to help and support you during these challenging times. I will endeavour to keep this area updated but call me or email  me if you need to.

In our world today many people are developing their own ideas, values and beliefs about life, religion and philosophy and whilst traditional ceremonies will continue to play an integral part in community life, more people are seeking alternative approaches. I aim to reflect the wishes and desires of those seeking support and it is my privilege to bring to individuals and families an alternative but yet still a respectful and memorable occasion. 

Visit my pages to find out more, or just give me a call.