Funeral directors

Funeral directors have an immensely important role to play in supporting the bereaved, not only in helping families arrange services that meet their cultural or religious needs, but also in guiding families through many of the practical arrangements that surround a death. Should a family wish to carry out the entirety of a funeral independent of a funeral director, advice can be obtained from their Local Authority Cemeteries and Crematorium Department.

Families frequently make contact with funeral directors within a few hours of the death of their child. Not only may they be feeling shocked and numb following the death, but they may have little idea of what is possible or the choices that are open to them. The funeral director may be able to offer options that families have not considered.

Sensitive guidance at this distressing time is paramount, as is, of course, involving the family and respecting their wishes. Making arrangements for parent who wish to dress their child and perhaps place their child in the coffin and supporting families to have their dead child at home for a time before the funeral can be very helpful. Suggesting that relatives may wish to carry the coffin of a baby or child themselves is another way to give families positive memories of this sad time.

The Child Bereavement Charity produces a range of helpful resources for families, and those who care for them in whatever capacity. Our training course 'Supporting parents when a baby or child dies' aims to help professionals understand the needs of grieving families. Training can also be specifically devised to meet the needs of particular groups.