The Chronicle

Planning a funeral during the pandemic

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IT’S been many months since the onset of the Covid-19 outbreak, and the rules for organising a funeral service – including how many relatives and friends are allowed to attend – are continuall­y changing. But, thanks to its long history of working in communitie­s across the country, Co-op Funeralcar­e has the expertise and experience to help you overcome the current challenges of arranging a loved one’s funeral service and answer any questions you have.

How can I organise a service in the pandemic?

Q

You can only visit a

A

funeral home with an appointmen­t, but a service can be arranged over the phone. Co-op Funeralcar­e is still arranging funerals and knowledgea­ble staff are on hand 24/7, seven days a week to help you make plans.

How different are funerals right now?

Q

Currently funeral

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services have had to be adapted under social distancing guidelines, and the numbers permitted to attend vary in different regions across Britain. The rules can also vary depending on a particular venue. Your local funeral director can advise you.

Can funerals be live-streamed for those who can’t attend?

Q

Yes, many crematoriu­ms A now have the facility to live-stream or record funeral services.

Can I still visit my loved Q one in the chapel of rest? You can still visit loved A ones in the care of Co-op Funeralcar­e, but this is limited to a maximum of two visitors.

Are there special ways Q that I can say goodbye to a loved one at this time?

You could use social

A

media, where friends and family upload pictures and memories of your loved one. Setting Covid-19 aside, there are lots of ways to personalis­e a funeral. This can be simple, such as the Co-op Funeralcar­e team wearing ties in your loved one’s favourite colour at the service; or something more, such as a picture coffin with touching images from their life. Or planting seeds or a memorial tree. You have the freedom to make your unique goodbye as special as they were.

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