Funeral Service Attendance is still limited.

The wearing of face coverings is now mandatory for attending all indoor funeral services.

The primary purpose of this is to reduce the number of individuals attending funerals in order to protect the bereaved, funeral directors, cremation and burial staff from becoming infected.

Burial and Crematorium Authorities

In the ongoing delivery of funeral services, Burial and Cremation Authorities have adopted a risk-based approach taking into account government advice, vulnerable groups and the importance of protecting the key workers outlined in government advice.

Some Crematorium and Burial Authorities have now increased funeral attendee numbers to above 10 providing they are not in any of the high-risk categories and are not self-isolating. Attendee numbers will vary from venue to venue, however there can be no more than 30 people in attendance – even if the venue has a greater capacity.

At some venues families now have the choice as to whether the curtains remain open at the end of the service, again this varies from venue to venue.

Where webcam facilities are available, most crematoriums have maintained the reduced cost to enable the funeral service to be viewed from home.

Hymn books have been removed from the chapels however words will appear on screen or on the order of service. Organists are not currently permitted.

Local Churches are now starting to open for funeral services, although availability and the number of attendees will be limited and will vary from Church to Church.

With the current limitations we are advising families to consider arranging a celebration service once circumstances allow so all family and friends can attend.