Saying goodbye to a loved one is already a time filled with emotion but for those who have unfortunately suffered a loss during the current Coronavirus pandemic there have been untold sorrow. We have taken some time to outline the guidelines in the hope to ease your stress and confusion with regards to funeral services, with the aim to keep this as up to date as possible with the latest changes to restrictions.
Face-to-Face
Currently face-to-face meetings are still permitted in accordance with social distancing guidelines. At SC & BS Cocks we are continuing to hold face-to-face meetings at our office, where we do ask that you wear a mask, unless you are exempt. If you forget a mask, please do not worry, we will have some disposable ones available upon entry that you can use.
Face Masks
Following the government guidelines for face masks, they are also required when attending indoor places of worship, crematoria, and burial grounds chapels. It’s advised that you wear a face covering in all other enclosed public spaces where social distancing may be difficult, or you are likely to come into contact with people you wouldn’t normally meet.
Social Distancing
If attending a funeral, you must follow the rules on social distancing and should ensure you stay at least 2 meters apart from others outside of your household or support bubble.
Where funeral ceremonies are held as part of communal worship, limits should be based on the capacity of the place of worship, and visitors should continue to follow the rule of 2 metres, or 1 metre where a face covering is used.
There is separate guidance on places of worship available here.
Who Can Attend?
The maximum number of people attending a funeral cannot exceed 30, whether indoors or outdoors. However, this number does not include funeral staff.
Depending on the premises the ceremony is taking place at, the maximum number of people able to attend may be less depending on how many people the venue can safely accommodate with social distancing.
Funeral Wakes
After saying goodbye to a loved one at their funeral, close family and friends often wish to celebrate the life of the deceased with a wake. For this occasion, the maximum limit of attendees is 15 people. This is also the case for ash scattering and stone setting. All of these events should only take place in COVID-19 secure venues where the organiser has completed a risk assessment and taken precautions to limit the risk of transmission.
Singing
It is advised that singing is to be avoided wherever possible, as this may increase the spread of the virus, as well as any shouting, chanting and raised voices. Some professional singing may be allowed if socially distanced, either indoors or outdoors. It should be limited to no more than 6 people, staying at least 2 metres apart and should not include audience participation.
We understand that funeral arrangements and bereavement are not easy in normal circumstances and they have been made harder with current restrictions due to the pandemic. However, we are always just a phone call away if you need help or have any questions.
Simply call us on 01452 617892 and we would be happy to help where we can.