Family Led Funerals
In the UK there is no legal requirement to use the services of a funeral director (or a celebrant) Whilst some families may wish to take on all the elements of organising of a funeral and find a richness in being so present and involved, for others this may be very daunting and they may greatly appreciate the services of a sensitive, caring funeral director in a time of grief.
It is also possible to find funeral directors (and celebrants) who will be flexible in the services that they provide, assisting you with certain elements whilst leaving you to arrange others, mostly with the help of family and friends. Funeral directors will vary in price, flexibility and services offered. When choosing a funeral director, make sure that you choose one that you feel happy with, who will work together with you in caring, professional way, aligned to and supporting your values.
The Natural Death Centre offers detailed help and assistance if a family led funeral is the path you choose. They offer free advice and can support you in practicalities of care, coffins, transport, coffin bearing, grave digging & back filling, ceremony/service, etc.
Caring for your loved one at home after they have died
It is also possible to care for your loved one at home after death. It can be a very meaningful and personal experience to wash and care for them, dress and lay them out, keep the body cool and spend some precious time with them. The goodbye rituals and the grieving process slowly start here in the last acts of physical caring, in honouring them, and in sharing this time with others. This is not new, this is an old time honoured tradition, and one that people are starting to want to reclaim. If this is something you would like support with, please get in touch.
Clare Turnham – from Only With Love is very experienced and offers support and guidance and workshops around gentle care after death.
One Wash cloth – facilitating healing in loss by supporting family members to care for the bodies of their loved ones directly after death, through the simple gift of a washcloth.
The Good Funeral Guide – offers some good basic things to consider about caring for someone at home after they have died.
The Home Funeral Network – a UK site offering support, education and guidance around home based, family led funerals.
The National Home Funeral Alliance – is a US organisation and has a wealth of information on the website and publications for sale.