Arranging A Funeral During Lockdown
Coping with the loss of a family member or a friend is one of the hardest things that we have to deal with and during this period of lockdown, it has become even more difficult as large gatherings of people are not allowed. Funerals are important for the health and wellbeing of the bereaved and are an important part of the grieving process. It’s important to state that funerals can still go ahead, but there are very strict guidelines in place, which have been implemented in order to save lives and prevent the spread of COVID-19. In this article from Hearts & Souls Celebrancy, we look at the current regulations and the options that you have for a funeral service including whether you would like a funeral celebrant to lead a service now or in the future.
Restrictions on the numbers who can attend a funeral
The government has issued guidance, which restricts the number of mourners that can attend with an emphasis on keeping the numbers as low as possible. All those going to the funeral must adhere to social distancing rules and be at least 2 metres apart, not only at the funeral gathering but whilst travelling.
Who can attend a funeral?
- The Funeral Director, Chapel Attendant and funeral staff
- Members of the deceased person’s household
- Close family members
- Close friends, if the above cannot attend
- A celebrant if requested by the bereaved
Mourners who are self-isolating but are not symptomatic and those who are clinically vulnerable should be facilitated to attend with processes in place to minimise the risk of transmission. Anyone showing signs of COVID-19 should not attend and remote participation should be considered.
Arranging a funeral – what you need to think about?
- Who will be attending?
- Services could be shorter, as the venue will need to be cleaned
- Social distancing will be enforced
- Paper including scripts and song sheets cannot be handled
- Hugging or kissing will not be permitted, so adopt a right hand over the heart or a nod
- A possible memorial service when you are able to do so?
- Would you like a service led by a funeral celebrant?
How can a funeral celebrant help?
Celebrants are still permitted to lead and guide the service. A celebrant will be able to plan the funeral service working closely with you in order to steer you through the process and provide you with ideas for readings, eulogies, poems, music and, if to be included, prayers. The initial and subsequent meetings can be set up by phone or a video communication link such as Zoom or WhatsApp where you will have the opportunity to talk about your loved one and what you would like included in the ceremony.
Share the ceremony via live streaming at the crematorium
Live streaming can usually take place at the crematorium so that the ceremony can be shared with your family and friends who are unable to attend.
Planning a memorial service
You may want to start planning a separate memorial service, which can be held when restrictions have been lifted, although at present nobody knows when this might be. This will give you the opportunity for friends and family to come together to share their memories, read eulogies and celebrate the life of the person that you have lost.
How can Hearts & Souls Celebrancy help you?
Nobody could have predicted the impact that coronavirus would have and that it would close down the options for a funeral service with many friends and families being unable to attend due to the restrictions on numbers. Jane is a trained celebrant who will conduct a warm and personal service to celebrate the life of your loved one. Jane will also be able to help you if you want to plan a memorial service or you just want to talk through anything relating to a funeral service at this difficult time. You will find that sharing your thoughts with Jane can be a huge comfort and make your journey a little bit easier. Call Jane on 07774 614399 or email jane@heartsandsoulscelebrancy.co.uk
