New funeral fees backed

Muslim Burial Group said they were also unhappy that the price for a sixfoot-deep grave for two was shooting up by almost £400.

Clr Sheard said the new fees brought them in line with the average for West Yorkshire, without including Leeds – which is more expensive.

“We are still charging less than every one of our neighbouring authorities,” he said.

“We’ve not gone for a full cost recovery, if we did it would be £500 £600 more.”

Deputy Leader, Clr Shabir Pandor, moved to ease concerns about a lack of flexibility in the new system, saying that funeral directors and burial groups would be invited to a forum to “iron out the details”

“We have significantly amended the report from what was originally intended,” he said.

“The West Yorkshire average is £40 more than what we’re proposing.”

Clr Pandor said the bereavement service would look to accommodate the needs of all religions and be flexible to individual circumstances.

Clr Mus Khan said it was important that families felt supported by the council during distressing times.

She added: “We’ve listened and we’ve engaged with communities.

“I’m pleased we’re extending the service over a seven-day period – this is reflecting modern lifestyles to allow families time to travel.”

Mr Yusef said their groups were not asking for “preferential treatment, special favours or privileges” but making sure that the council met the requirements of the law to not discriminate against religions.

He said: “It is six months since the proposals that had everyone in shock.

“Thankfully the cabinet saw sense and asked for it to be reviewed.

“We are required to expedite the burials – the impact of this belief puts stress on family members to carry out the last rights of their loved ones.

“It is important we understand funeral arrangements. It is the last act one does for their dearly departed.“

The new charges and systems are set to begin in September.