Restrictions on funerals relaxed in some areas

EARLIER this year, it was announced that mourners would be limited at funerals in Wales in an attempt to stop the spread of coronavirus.

Now, as restrictions are starting to ease slightly, some areas are allowing more people to attend funerals.

Understandably, it came to a point where various councils had to take action to protect people attending ceremonies.

This included ensuring social distancing measures were in place and limiting the amount of people who attend funerals.

While many restrictions remain in place, some authorities have confirmed more people will now be able to attend funerals.

Yesterday, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council announced it would increase mourner numbers at funeral services to 15 at Glyntaf and Llwydcoed Crematoria and Rhondda Cynon Taf cemeteries in order to continue to keep families safe at this difficult time.

Previously only nine people were permitted to attend but, even though slightly more people are now able to be present, social distancing guidelines must still be followed and enforced.

In the five Gwent local authorities (Newport, Torfaen, Monmouthshire, Blaenau Gwent and Caerphilly), changes were made at the end of May.

Before May 26, only five people were allowed to attend funerals in the Gwent areas. Now 10 people are permitted to attend.

A statement read: “Partners of the Gwent Local Resilience Forum agreed to increase the number of mourners permitted to attend funerals, memorial services and gatherings at Gwent Crematorium and cemeteries within the five local authority areas of Gwent, to 10.

“Due to the ongoing Covid-19 coronavirus outbreak and in line with government restrictions, it is still necessary to limit the number of people in any public space and ensure necessary social distancing. However, all councils fully recognise and understand how difficult these restrictions can be for the family and friends of the deceased.

“The level of demand and related risk at these sites has been under constant review and restrictions have been eased as soon as it has been deemed safe and appropriate to do so for both the public and staff.”

In Bridgend, a maximum of 10 close family members have been permitted to attend services since the outbreak began.

Bridgend County Borough Council said there are no current plans for this to change, but it is under constant review and will be revisited based on national guidelines.