Co-op Funeralcare with branches in Gaywood and Hunstanton issues new guidelines of funerals

Co-op Funeralcare, which has branches in Gaywood and Hunstanton, has issued new guidelines on funerals during the coronavirus outbreak.

It is pausing the use of limousines in line with the current government safety guidelines and funeral arrangements will be carried out over the phone where possible. If necessary, just two clients will meet with funeral arrangers.

It is also requesting that no more than ten people attend funeral gatherings so that attendees can follow social distancing guidelines.

David Collingwood, director of funerals at Co-op Funeralcare, said: “Losing a loved one is a devastating time for any family, but even more so to lose someone in the current circumstances.

"We have a social responsibility to limit the spread of disease and play our part to save lives, whilst fully supporting our colleagues and communities through a time of loss.

"Our colleagues are working tirelessly to provide families with access to the services they need to navigate the loss of a loved one,whilst also adhering to government safety guidelines and social distancing requirements to limit and slow the spread of coronavirus.

“Where crematoriums have filming facilities, in most circumstances they should be available to families who wish to access them, and the systems should be resilient enough to cope with the extra demand.

“We aim to protect our communities and have therefore had to make some tough but responsible choices to help families and individuals say goodbye in the safest possible way.”

For up to date advice from Co-op Funeralcare, www.coop.co.uk/funeralcare/coronavirus