Funeral Service Times June 2012

F

S

ervice times

uneral

The independent voice of the funeral profession

Established 2006

ISSN 2046-7273

JUNE 2012

www.funeralservicetimes.co.uk

Hearse and verse Poetry of life

Coffin special Eco and traditional designs Keeping it unique

Coffin personalisation and the positive effects it can have for the bereaved when dealing with their grief

Interview

Clive Kirk, national president of the BIFD, discusses his career to date, and the plans for his term of residence

This month

june

2012

C o n te n t s

Dispatches

6

Comment

11

Encouragement and belief

13

The latest news from the profession Gus Nichols discusses the recent attempt at introducing a Bill for funeral service regulation in Ireland, and looks forward to the NAFD AGM

Louise Hoffman catches up with Clive Kirk, national president of the British Institute of Funeral Directors, to hear about his career to date and the plans for his term of residence

Products 16 New products and services from the trade

Bereavement 21 Rev George Callander uses none other than the hallowed cobbles of Coronation Street as his inspiration for this month’s contemplation of bereavement issues

The magic of life

Poetry has a unique ability to capture and convey certain special qualities of life, as Peter Wyllie illustrates with four examples

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Coffin SPECIAL

Traditional coffins

24

The clouding of the beer

28

Unique ways to say goodbye

30

Eco-friendly coffins

34

Moving with the times

36

Going for green

38

An exciting future

40

Showcasing a selection of the latest sleek casket and coffin designs

Ursula Williams of Crazy Coffins tells the especially tangled tale of a beer bottle car, a covert coffin commission, and the irrepressible world of journalism

Tara Christopher takes a look at an increasingly popular coffin personalisation option, and the positive effect it can have for the bereaved

A range of designs suitable for those who are looking for a ‘greener’ alternative Greenfield Creations’ managing director William Hunneybel discusses the new technology that the company has recently adopted, and how it will benefit customers

Louise Hoffman catches up with JC Atkinson’s sales and marketing manager, Mark Morris, to hear about the company’s efforts in the eco arena

Managing director Steve Hoare tells Louise Hoffman about Tributes’ latest product and service offerings, and its future goals

Editor’s letter

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his month is the Funeral Service Times ‘coffin special’ issue, which showcases the plethora of innovative designs that are available for you to offer to your clients – both traditional and ‘green’ – as well as the behind-the-scenes operations of a few of the manufacturing companies.

As Tara Christopher discovers in her article on page 30, the gradually widening range of options for personalising a coffin – in order to reflect the character or interests of the person it contains, or to allow a greater level of interaction for the bereaved – is working wonders when it comes to the grief process.

Speaking to a family who chose to decorate their loved one’s coffin themselves, Tara was told that the experience was one of the “most memorable, transformational and uplifting” of their lives.

“I have always felt a sense of separation, as though there is some sort of invisible barrier between yourself and the coffin,” one family member added. “Instead, Fiona’s coffin became a focal point and an integral and important part of the service, and it felt very holistic.”

Even if clients don’t wish to go as far as adding their own messages and drawings to a coffin, selecting a design which they feel suitably honours the life of their loved one, or which fulfills his or her wishes, can be reassuring and therapeutic.

With that in mind, it makes sense to be aware of the options that are currently available, so that you can advise them accordingly – I hope the ‘coffin special’ section (beginning on page 24) will help you to do just that!

Last but not least, you will find that the obituary page has made a comeback, following a reader’s request! This appears on page 46.

With best wishes for the month ahead,

In the bag

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Making a difference

44

Andy Steavenson, managing director for Amspac Funeral Bags, outlines the company’s history, product knowledge and portfolio

The National Osteoporosis Society explains its work in fighting the pain and disability caused by broken bones

Obituaries 46 A tribute to some of those who have died recently

Your story

Claire and Rupert Callender, The Green Funeral Company, Devon

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Louise Hoffman

louise@funeralservicetimes.co.uk

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6

Dispatches

Funeral Service The independent voice of the funeral profession

times

Established 2006

Funeral Service Times is published monthly by:

Mulberry Publications Ltd, Wellington House, Butt Road, Colchester CO3 3DA Tel: 01206 767 797 Fax: 01206 767 532 www.funeralservicetimes.co.uk Editor Louise Hoffman louise@funeralservicetimes.co.uk Editorial Assistants Naida Ally naida@funeralservicetimes.co.uk Callum Gildart callum@funeralservicetimes.co.uk Design/Deputy Production Editor Lewis Bowes copy@funeralservicetimes.co.uk Group Advertisement Manager Kelly Smith kelly@funeralservicetimes.co.uk Deputy Group Advertisement Manager Julie-Ann Kwok julie@funeralservicetimes.co.uk Advertising Sales Adam Bennett adam@funeralservicetimes.co.uk Accounts Maureen Scrivener accounts@funeralservicetimes.co.uk Customer Services 01206 767 797 customers@mulberrypublications.co.uk Contributing writers: Gus Nichols, Peter Wyllie, Rev George Callander, Tara Christopher & Ursula Williams Cover image: Epping Woodland Burial Park

ISSN 2046-7273 The editor and publishers do not guarantee the accuracy of statements made by contributors or advertisers, or accept responsibility for any statement that they express in this publication.

The opinion of the contributors may not necessarily be the opinion of the publishers.

Articles are considered for publication on the basis that they are the author’s original work.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise, without the permission of the publishers.

Parliament discusses funeral issues At the latest All Party Parliamentary Funerals and Bereavement Group meeting in Westminster, one of the key topics under discussion was the release of the deceased from hospital.

The Parliamentary Group was informed that funeral directors are having to deal with an increasing number of NHS hospitals that insist upon being provided with the Registrar’s Certificate of Burial or Cremation before they allow the collection of the deceased from the mortuary. This practice is causing both delays to the removals and further upset for bereaved families that are yet to finalise funeral arrangements.

Due to these concerns, the Group is seeking a meeting with Anne Milton MP, the Health Minister who has a responsibility for public health, to find a way of resolving the problem.

Other issues debated were the Welfare Reform Bill and Social Fund budgeting loans, and changes to death certification.

The Welfare Reform Bill is now an Act of Parliament under which budgeting loans will be extended to include funeral expenses and made available to people on low incomes. The Bill received royal assent on 8 March.

Parliamentarians are eager to know how the details of the Bill are to be communicated by the Government, so they have written to Steve Webb MP, the Minister at the Department for Work and Pensions with responsibility for the Social Fund, to find out how the loans will be administered and publicised.

Previously delayed revisions to the death certification process were also covered, and the Group is seeking discussions with Ms Milton, after it was revealed that further set-backs mean the implementation of the reforms is now scheduled for 1 October 2013.

Chief executive officer of the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) Alan Slater said: “We are pleased that the All Party Parliamentary Funerals and Bereavement Group is addressing a number of important issues that are of concern to the profession,” and that “it is important that funeral directors understand how budgeting loans work in practice.”

A hat-trick of awards for Austin’s FDs Staff at Austin’s Funeral Directors have been celebrating after winning three prestigious business awards.

The family firm, which has eight branches in Hertfordshire and owns and runs Harwood Park Crematorium and Memorial Gardens in Stevenage, picked up the Excellence in Customer Service award, Medium to Large Business of the Year award, and the prestigious overall Business of the Year award at the Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards.

Organised by the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the awards are designed “to celebrate success and achievement and boost business confidence in Hertfordshire,” and attracted a huge number of entries. Over 300 people attended the gala presentation evening, which was held at the Porsche Centre in Hatfield.

Presenting the Business of the Year award to Claire Austin, who was also a finalist in the Entrepreneur of the Year category, the judges commented: “In an outstanding field, our winner tonight demonstrated all of the qualities one would wish to see in a successful company... Austin’s Funeral Service is not only outstanding within its own sector but is an exemplar for all business.”

Speakers announced for London Funeral Exhibition This year, the Chiltern Woodland Burial Park in Buckinghamshire will host ‘If you go down to the woods today’, a family event held as part of the London Funeral Exhibition.

Taking place on 7 and 8 July, the London Funeral Exhibition is a free showcase, which offers visitors the opportunity to meet with and listen to industry speakers from The Good Funeral Guide, Dying Matters, the Bereavement Register and many more, as well as review all types of products and services from providers and suppliers such as Earth to Heaven and Funeography, and gain an insight into how the funeral business is adapting to meet the needs of a changing society.

For further information contact Lorna Hunte on 0870 300 2582 or lorna@15degrees.com

Dispatches

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Research highlights cultural And briefly shift in approach to wakes Chief coroner announcement According to research conducted by the Co-operative Funeralcare, the British tradition of mourning at a wake has undergone a cultural shift, as people “opt to celebrate life to help overcome their grief ”.

Almost one in three people (29.73 per cent) see the wake as a time for celebrating life, while only one in nine (11.42 per cent) would organise it for mourning.

The research also demonstrated a stark contrast between the young and old. Two out of five youngsters aged 18 to 24 years old (38.21 per cent) would arrange a wake as a celebration of life, whereas older generations (over 55 years old) were almost three times as likely to see it as a time to mourn and mark the passing of a loved one.

For one in five people (18.1 per cent), a social gathering after a funeral remained an opportunity to bring together family and friends.

Two out of three people would now hire a venue, with pubs, sports or social clubs and village or church halls topping the list. One in eleven (8.47 per cent) people would book a hotel, and almost one in twenty (4.9 per cent) would go to a restaurant.

The research found that on average people were willing to spend £818 on organising a wake, whereas one in fourteen (7.24 per cent) would pay between £1,000 and £3,000. Men were more likely than women to use funds from the deceased’s estate to pay the costs of a wake.

Organising a wake for religious or cultural reasons was on the decline for all age groups, with only one in fifty people arranging a wake for these reasons. Some of the top reasons for organising a wake were: to celebrate the deceased’s life; to bring family and friends together; to mourn and for remembrance; and to pay respects.

Arctic adventure for Sunderland FD A funeral director from Sunderland has completed a journey across the Arctic to raise over £3,500 for Help for Heroes.

Kris Marley from Moorside travelled approximately 870 miles (1,400 kilometres) across the Arctic Circle in northern Norway, where temperatures plunged as low as -60˚C with wind chill.

Based at the Co-operative Funeralcare in Chester Road, Sunderland, Kris spent over a year organising fundraising events and undergoing intensive training for the journey.

He said: “When I was younger I always wanted to see the Northern Lights, and when I was getting ready to hit 30 last year I started looking into it and I also wanted to do some fundraising for Help for Heroes.

“I have a lot of respect for the armed forces; when I was younger I tried to sign up but didn’t get through the medical. I’ve had a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I’m over the moon to have raised so much for Help for Heroes.”

Image: Kris (right) with Lee Pendleton, who accompanied him on the trip.

Following consultation with the Lord Chancellor, the Lord Chief Justice announced on 22 May that His Honour Judge (HHJ) Peter Thornton QC is to become the first chief coroner of England and Wales when he takes up post in September 2012. HHJ Thornton is currently a senior circuit judge at the Central Criminal Court (the Old Bailey). He also has experience of the coroner system, having conducted the inquest in 2011 into the death of Ian Tomlinson during the G20 protests, and heard a number of judicial reviews on coronial matters. The Ministry of Justice will in the meantime work on plans for the implementation of the chief coroner’s statutory powers and other reforms to the coroner system contained within Part 1 of the Coroners and Justice Act 2009, with a view to bringing these into force in 2013. It will also work with the chief coroner on plans for the new Bereavement Organisations Committee, which it intends to establish once HHJ Thornton is in post.

Lyn Oakes launches new website Lyn Oakes Traditional Clothing has launched a new website, showcasing a range of clothing as well as a bespoke tailoring section and corporate clothing for both men and women. “We wanted to launch a website which highlighted everything we do – particularly our bespoke service,” said Simon Oakes, sales director. “That said, we are proud of our customer service and attention to detail and, while the website is there to show potential customers what we do, we remain traditional at heart and can visit customers to measure them beforehand and then to fit the clothing once it’s been tailored.”

Bearer spends night in the cells for charity Dennis Eales, a driver/bearer for a funeral home in Lancaster, spent five hours behind bars in aid of the Prince’s Trust charity. Dennis, a former policeman, turned himself into Lancaster Police Station at 9pm before being cuffed and led to the cells for his five-hour incarceration. His co-workers at the funeral home clubbed together to raise over £120 to bail him out.

Webcam unites families across the globe

WinterWillow on the move WinterWillow, part of Wintercomfort for the homeless, has announced that it is relocating. The move from Overstream House to 44 Newnham Road, Cambridge, affords additional employment opportunities to Wintercomfort service users. As a social business, the company provides training, development and employment for homeless individuals who require support to get back into independent living.

A funeral home in Banbury is helping families throughout the world say goodbye to their loved ones with a webcam service.

Mourners who use the Midcounties Co-operative Funeralcare home in Middleton Road can link with family and friends across the globe by having a webcam transmit a live feed of the ceremony.

Branch manager James Hewison said: “Communications technology and travel have made modern families much more global in nature.

“It therefore makes sense for us to use this same technology to help loved ones say goodbye, experience a wonderful ceremony and be with family and friends, even if they can’t make the trip for any number of reasons.

“The webcam has really resonated with people so far and we expect it to become an increasingly important part of the funeral experience as time goes on.”

New crematoria needed in Nottingham The managing director of the Westerleigh Group, Richard Evans, recently shared his thoughts with the Nottingham Post concerning a need for crematoria in the area. “North-east Nottingham has long been identified as one of the worst served areas in England and Wales for crematoria,” he said. “Bramcote and Mansfield are among the 20 busiest crematoria in the UK, while Wilford Hill is one of the oldest in the country. We need to relieve the pressure on existing crematoria. Eighty-eight thousand people locally have to travel more than 30 minutes to reach a crematorium, and this is not acceptable.”

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Dispatches

Provisional deaths in Northern Ireland by month of registration, 2012

Dates for your diary...

21 – 23 June

Source: Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency

12th International FIAT – IFTA Convention Dublin Castle Dublin, Ireland

Jan-12 1,433

www.dyingmatters.org

2 – 4 July

Cremation & Burial Conference & Exhibition 2012 The Hilton Newcastle Gateshead Newcastle Upon Tyne

Feb-12 1,267

Mar-12 1,316

Monthly provisional figures on deaths registered by area of usual residence, 2011/12 Source: ONS

www.cbce.org.uk

England and Wales

Jan-12

Feb-12

Mar-12

7 – 8 July

TOTAL REGISTRATIONS

46,902

44,540

44,152

ENGLAND AND WALES

46,809

44,476

44,073

ENGLAND North East North West Yorkshire and the Humber East Midlands West Midlands East London South East South West

43,887 2,471 6,330 4,827 3,855 4,721 4,862 4,604 7,280 4,937

41,865 2,186 5,926 4,449 3,725 4,445 4,779 4,627 7,023 4,705

41,306 2,189 5,909 4,282 3,698 4,417 4,817 4,301 6,990 4,703

WALES

2,922

2,611

2,767

Non-residents of England & Wales

93

64

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London Funeral Exhibition (LFE) Chiltern Woodland Burial Park Buckinghamshire www.iocf.org.uk/lfe2012.pdf

1 – 3 October

Institute of Cemetery & Crematorium Management ICCM Learning Convention and Exhibition Forest Pines Hotel North Lincolnshire www.iccm-uk.com

26 – 28 October BIFD AGM Harrogate

www.bifd.org.uk

Comment

So near, yet so far This month Gus Nichols covers the Irish parliament’s discussion, and consequent rejection, of a Bill for funeral service regulation… and other frosty receptions!

F

orgive me for the somewhat piecemeal nature of this column – it has been a little hard to find time to write it, as I am in the middle of finalising the June Convention arrangements and I have never been so busy.

Friday 20 April 2012 was an historic day for funeral service in Ireland. Our parliament, the Dáil, devoted one whole afternoon of debate on the Burial and Cremation Bill, a private-members Bill brought to the house by Mr Tommy Broughan TD. In living memory, this was the first time the Irish parliament had ever devoted time to debate the issues surrounding funeral service in Ireland; and the issues are many – a complete absence of regulation for funeral service providers, crematorium operators, embalming and cemetery services.

The fact that no regulation exists in any of these areas startled all of the contributors to the debate. All agreed that this was “wrong” and “something needs to be done” and “funeral directors are too expensive but do a great job” – the debate transcript makes for interesting reading and I would be delighted to send it to anyone who is interested.

The kernel of TD Broughan’s Bill was to be the setting up of an independent regulatory authority for all matters funeral. Based on a paper written by the IAFD (Irish Association of Funeral Directors) and published by the End of Life Forum, this new authority was to be funded by a small levy on each funeral conducted by a licensed funeral service provider (FSP). It would be based on the model used in Ontario and would be self-funded and cost-neutral to the state. It would award FSP licences based on set criteria of standards and requirements and operate an inspection team to monitor and approve funeral homes and embalming facilities. It all makes good sense, one would think.

Regrettably, the Bill fell on this issue. All the politicians could focus on was the media reaction to a tax or levy placed on funerals and bereaved families.

Despite recommendations from the IAFD that funeral directors would bear the cost of the levy in their overall costs, this was lost in the debate.

The other matter of concern for the Government

was that it would be seen to be creating yet another ‘quango’, and in this time of austerity and fiscal retrenchment, the mere suggestion of another agency caused palpitations and near hysteria for those in power.

The result was disappointing but not unexpected.

In its paper, the End of Life Forum (a wide-ranging review of all aspects of end-of-life care in Ireland) had placed much store on ‘The Funeral Sector in Ireland – the case for Regulation and Reform’ and its recommendations. But for the moment at least, the status-quo remains.

At time of writing, I am looking forward to travelling to Stratford-upon-Avon for the NAFD AGM on Saturday 19 May. Very kindly, NAFD president Mr Andrew Pargetter has asked me to propose the toast.

It is with some trepidation that I have been preparing my speech, knowing as I do that most funeral directors like to be entertained and aren’t unknown to offer the odd heckle. It must be something to do with having to mind our Ps and Qs so carefully when we are out on the day job.

The secret is to know your audience. However when I once entered a talent contest at my university student bar, I got it spectacularly wrong. Most of the performers were singing ballads on acoustic guitars.

I was act number seven, and decided to do Rowan Atkinson’s ‘schoolmaster/roll-call’ sketch (some of you might recall it from an early Secret Policeman’s Ball). The students hated it! I nearly got hit by an ash tray and left the stage to complete silence – not one single clap. The judges held their faces in their hands.

As I rejoined my friends in the bar, one of them said: “Gus – we’d better get the hell out of here!” And when I left the building, I received an ironic round of applause. Lovely!

Gus Nichols

For more information about FIAT-IFTA, please visit www.thanos.org

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Interview

Encouragement and belief Louise Hoffman catches up with Clive Kirk, national

president of the British Institute of Funeral Directors, to hear about his career to date and the plans for his term of residence What is your background in the funeral profession?

Born in Barnsley in November 1962 (yes, I am 50 this year!), I left school with an average education and became a butcher, before changing profession entirely and working for the local bus company as a bus driver. I met Lesley in 1982, we married in 1986 and our daughter Leanne was born in 1989.

I entered the funeral profession some 18 years ago when a friend asked me if I would be interested in employment as a casual bearer/ driver at his workplace. Funnily enough I said no at first, but then with a little gentle persuasion I did start the work and from that moment on I was hooked.

I managed to gain full time employment as a funeral operative, which I really enjoyed, and I wanted to progress to be a funeral director. In order to do this I needed to have a qualification, and the NAFD Diploma was to me, at that time, the ultimate goal.

Can you outline the history of Turners Funeral Service, and your role there?

Turners Funeral Service was a family-run business owned by Mr and Mrs Ernest Turner, who were both born and bred in the Conisbrough and Denaby Main areas of Doncaster. They set up their funeral/ joinery business in 1985, and their achievements within the local area were unbelievable as they quickly became established.

The business at first was mainly joinery work, but then funeral work progressed to become the main source of income for them. My employment with them began some 16 years ago, helping with the day-to-day running of the business, finishing coffins, car cleaning etc, and also helping with the memorial side. At this stage there were three members of staff – the two owners and myself.

My wife Lesley then joined us a couple of years later to do the administration and secretarial work, and together with our nine-yearold daughter Leanne we moved into the flat above the premises, after selling our own property in Barnsley.

It was during my employment at Turners that I passed my Diploma in the year 2000, becoming a member of the British Institute of Funeral Directors (BIFD) in 2001 and a fully qualified embalmer and member of the British Institute of Embalmers (BIE) in 2006.

Mr and Mrs Turner decided to retire in 2001 and gave Lesley and myself the chance to buy the company, which we did with no hesitation, and although it was a big decision at the time, we have never looked back.

We now employ three members of staff as well as ourselves – my nephew Ian Bird is a fully qualified funeral director; Joe Collins came to us from school on a work experience placement and is a funeral operative; and Carole Kaczmarczyk is a part time secretary – as well as several part time driver/bearers. We are a relatively small firm and pride ourselves on being family orientated, which I feel benefits us when helping our clients with their grief.

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Interview

Which recent experience stands out in your mind as a perfect illustration of the reason that you do your job?

One moment that stands out in my time as a funeral director is when I was contacted by a lady whose sister had passed away at the age of 22 as a result of a viral infection. This lady was very upset and angry and extremely demanding, to the point that I began to question whether I was able to provide the funeral service she required; I got the impression that she didn’t trust me to deliver my promises. I felt that my educational knowledge helped me to know how to deal with this matter, and how to achieve the end result, and the funeral went ahead smoothly and without a hitch. The family were delighted with the service I provided and since then the lady has become a good friend and has used us again twice for family funerals with no problems whatsoever.

Another occasion that stands out in my mind is when my own mother passed away. This was obviously a very difficult time for me but I was adamant that I wanted to carry out the arrangements myself. My mother suffered from facial cancer and needed extensive reconstruction, which my previous training enabled me to achieve with great success. When dad visited our chapel of rest to view mum he was astounded, and his words in true Barnsley slang were: “You know your job, lad.” My dad was a man of few words and so this meant everything to me – I will never forget that moment.

What motivated you to take your involvement in the sector further than everyday funeral directing responsibilities, to become a pivotal figure and representative?

I have always worked in the independent sector and have been involved in local area meetings and other organisations, and I feel that by attending meetings I gain knowledge and find myself mixing with people who I have heard of and respect in the profession – I am now known as a friend and colleague to them. This is something that I would encourage any new funeral director to do.

My previous achievements mean a lot to me, and I have held positions within the NAFD as regional chairman, Yorkshire president and treasurer, and I am currently on the Executive Committee for the Yorkshire area.

Can you tell us a little about your association with the BIFD over the years?

I have regularly attended Region C meetings, holding such positions as regional chairman and regional director. I had been on the Board of Directors for three years when my name was put forward for second vice president, leading then to first vice president and to national president – the position I hold today.

Accepting these prestigious roles was easy for me but I was aware of the extra pressure this would bring to my wife and also to my

staff, as I would be away from the business and would be relying on them greatly. In fact Lesley was not at all happy at first but has embraced my role and supported me every step of the way, for which I am extremely grateful. She has even taken on the role of editor of our quarterly magazine. My staff have been fantastic, stepping into mine and Lesley’s shoes when we are away, and I cannot thank them enough for this.

What are your goals for your term of residence?

My main goal for this, my presidential year, is to raise awareness about the BIFD being an individual membership and to promote our new educational qualifications to produce structure that will place us at the forefront of the funeral industry. The Institute deserves to have the recognition that it has always had, right from the beginning in 1982, when it was set up to give standards and offer education within the funeral sector.

My theme for this year is ‘encouragement and belief ’. I thought long and hard about it, and felt that the Institute needed an injection of enthusiasm in order to continue moving forward in this everchanging world.

Education has always been at the forefront of our Institute and will continue to be, so we are currently bringing in our new qualifications – the Introduction to Funeral Service; the Certificate in Funeral Service; the Diploma in Funeral Service; and the Diploma in Funeral Service Management – using our very own textbook and syllabi. New members are always welcome (please call 01920 898 156 for more information), and details of these courses are being placed on our website www.bifd.org.uk as they become available.

All of this would not have been possible without the commitment of our executive officers, the Board of Directors and Education Committee, all of whom have worked tirelessly to achieve our goals and to get us to where we are today – a stronger Institute with a brighter future.

What are your concerns for the long-term future of the profession? And how is the BIFD working to alleviate these problems?

My long-term concern for the funeral profession as a whole is that I believe all funeral directors should hold some sort of recognised qualification to practice. It is too easy to set up a funeral business these days – standards are at risk and our academic abilities are becoming meaningless. If we are all at the same standard then we can all play fair, meaning our clients will ultimately receive a better service.

Also, with technology moving forward as it does, I wonder if eventually funerals will be arranged over the internet instead of through the face-to-face personal service that we currently offer. But maybe I am just a traditionalist…

(L-R) Ian Bird, Lesley Kirk, Clive Kirk, Carole Kaczmarczyk, Joe Collins

The BIFD’s AGM and Conference 2012 is to be held from Friday 26 October to Sunday 28 October at the Old Swan Hotel in Harrogate, HG1 2SR.

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Products

Immortile

After winning approval from the Royal Household, with permission to use the splendid photograph it issued, Immortile Ltd is offering a unique ceramic sculpture of Her Majesty. Explicitly for use on commemorative benches in conjunction with the bench company www.4memorialbench.co.uk, “Immortile’s ceramic sculptures make the perfect, satisfying, durable and practical commemorative product, and the use of our newly-launched ceramic QR offers links to the online pages of www.friendsandrelations.com,” says the company.

Information: 01823 401 014 (Julian Dakowski), enquiries@immortile.com, www.immortile.com or www.memorybutton.co.uk

Omega Supplies

Omega Supplies is pleased to introduce its new range of stainless steel keepsake jewellery.

The keepsake jewellery comes in nine designs and each holds a small amount of cremated remains. As an introduction to the funeral industry, Omega is offering one of each design in a presentation box for the funeral home at £99 – there are only 20 sets available at this price! Omega believes that the designs of the jewellery will appeal to both genders. “This is a great way of getting those all-important added value sales for your company,” it adds.

If you have any questions regarding this or another Omega product, please contact the office using the details below.

Information: 01507 440 200, 07872 665 024 (Mark Richards) or mark-omega@btconnect.com

MuchLoved

MuchLoved has developed a new virtual candle facility for its memorial website service.

Jonathan Davies explains: “From speaking to users, it was clear that people light a candle in memory for a number of different reasons. It may be to keep a light constantly burning as a vigil to their loved one; it may be as a sign to show that they are thinking of someone; or it may be a spiritual act in itself. To help users light a candle to reflect their own personal reasons, we have created a number of different candles to choose from on their tribute website, which burn for different lengths of time, ranging from small tea-light ‘thought’ candles, through to large pillar ‘vigil’ candles.” To find out more about MuchLoved tribute websites please visit the website, or for partnership enquiries, visit the partners’ website.

Information: www.muchloved.com or www.muchlovedpartners.com

The Final Cruise Company

The Final Cruise Company offers the ultimate farewell and perfect send-off for the hot rod enthusiast, allowing family and friends to join together and celebrate their life and passion. A Fordson hot rod hearse, with a fully customised coffin deck and PA system to play the deceased’s favourite music, is accompanied by a cruise driver in hot rod or funeral dress. A conductor is also available.

Information: 01462 790 706 or www.thefinalcruise.co.uk

Bereavement

Bringing it all home Once again, the British soap opera has brought its audience face-to-face with a powerful issue – this time bereavement-related. Rev George Callander comments

R

eaders, I make no apology, but I am a devoted fan of Coronation Street and watch the thrice-weekly comings and goings on those hallowed cobbles with great enthusiasm. Recently thereon, as many of you will know, there has been a major storyline involving character Lesley Kershaw’s increasing battle with Alzheimer’s disease, and the clandestine affair between her husband Paul and Coronation Street resident, Eileen Grimshaw.

The convoluted story has played out over several months, and recently came to a head with Lesley’s accidental death by electrocution when she dropped a plugged-in toaster into a full sink, whilst unattended in Eileen’s house.

The tragedy was even more poignant since at the time of Lesley’s encounter, Eileen (her unofficial carer) was not in the house, and husband Paul was at a solicitor’s office discussing a divorce, thus opening the way for he and Eileen to marry. Oh my, what a mess!

What struck me most in the aftermath of the character’s death was the powerful depiction of many of the issues faced by people bereaved suddenly and unexpectedly.

Throughout my pastoral and clinical career I have worked with sadly too many people who have been suddenly and tragically bereaved. The impact of loss is further compounded when there has been no warning; no opportunity to tie up loose ends and say that all-important final farewell. And of course there is often painful recrimination; it is all too easy to apportion blame (even where none exists) on ourselves or others: “If only I hadn’t complained about his muddy boots, he wouldn’t have stormed out of the house and been hit by the lorry...”

“If you hadn’t answered your phone, you would have kept an eye on her and she

wouldn’t have fallen down the stairs and wouldn’t have died...”

We even try to blame the one who has died: “Well, it’s his own stupid fault for not listening to what I told him when he said he wanted a motorbike...”

The impact of loss is further compounded when there has been no warning Meanwhile, and back on Coronation Street, Eileen and Paul were busily blaming each other and themselves for poor Lesley’s death. Yes: perhaps if Lesley hadn’t just punched Eileen in the face she wouldn’t have left Lesley on her own in the house to meet her fate. Perhaps, too, if Paul hadn’t gone to see a solicitor to discuss divorce he would have been at home to supervise Lesley and she would not have tipped the toaster into the sink.

Maybe, maybe not – who knows? The only certainty is that Lesley’s tragic death set in place in the other protagonists profound grief reactions and responses to tragic death; some justified, and some formed by the emotional turmoil such a tragedy causes for those involved.

The ‘Corrie’ plot may be extreme (after all, it makes better telly), but it has brought the plight of suddenly bereaved people into millions of sitting rooms around the country. It has raised awareness of the power of grief and its ability to permeate every aspect of life: thought, word and deed for all concerned.

Many of us regularly work with people bereaved suddenly and tragically. How many

of us, however, appreciate that such tragedy can make people behave in completely uncharacteristic ways, which to us can seem antagonistic, hurtful or even aggressive.

While on one level this may be so; on another more profound and lasting level, what we see in such clients is overwhelming bewilderment.

The metaphorical rug has been whipped out from beneath them, and they lose their emotional balance. How we as bereavement practitioners relate to them and use our expertise (and above all, compassion) in our dealings with them at a raw, vulnerable time, can have a powerful effect on restoring their equilibrium.

In ‘Soapland’, Paul and Eileen will doubtless have a long and rocky road ahead as they deal jointly and severally with the enormity of Lesley’s death, and I have little doubt the Corrie scriptwriters will in some way make it better for them. In the real world our clients have no-one to write the script for them on their road to recovery from sudden and tragic loss. However, they are not alone – there are many professional and peer-led resources to help, guide and support them. And first and foremost, there’s you to help them take those first, tiny, tentative steps on the road to recovery.

Right, time to put my feet up in front of the TV and immerse myself in the familiar world of Weatherfield, with its residents, cobbles and Betty’s hot pot. Sheer bliss!

The Rev George Callander FRSA is senior minister of the liberal Christian UK Open Free Church, president of the Society of Bereavement Practitioners, and a bereavement specialist practitioner, speaker and trainer. Please visit www.gscallander.com or www.socbp.org for more information.

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22

Hearse and verse

The magic of life Poetry has a unique ability to capture and convey certain special qualities of life, as Peter Wyllie illustrates with four examples

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very month, many services are conducted that contain well-used, tried and tested poems, but every so often a fresh poem comes to light and brings something new to a service. This month I was able to include the following poems in my services.

Firstly, a poem written in tribute to the real legacy of a life:

Invictus (Latin for ‘unconquered’) is a celebration of the indomitable spirit by W E Henley: Out of the night that covers me, Black as the pit from pole to pole, I thank whatever gods may be For my unconquerable soul.

If not for you we may never have known the magic of marrying one’s soul mate; the pleasure of a sister-in-law’s company, or the laughter shared with an aunt.

We would not have felt the delight of a mother’s joy; the passion in a grandmother’s pride or the sorrow in her loss.

In the fell clutch of circumstance I have not winced nor cried aloud.

Under the bludgeonings of chance My head is bloody, but unbowed.

If not for you we may never have seen the compassion and generosity of one who could not always afford to give, or the worry that came with both.

It matters not how strait the gate, How charged with punishments the scroll, I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul.

We could not have shared the depth of a sister’s love; the grief in a friend’s passing or the anguish in a relationship lost.

If not for you, we would have nothing to rejoice. © Richard Lawrence Belford Epitaph on a Friend by Robert Burns is a great poem to celebrate the life of a man who had achieved much in his life.

An honest man here lies at rest, The friend of man, the friend of truth, The friend of age, and guide of youth: Few hearts like his, with virtue warm’d, Few heads with knowledge so inform’d; If there’s another world, he lives in bliss; If there is none, he made the best of this.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears Looms but the horror of the shade, And yet the menace of the years Finds, and shall find me, unafraid.

And the final fresh poem for me was a beautiful little piece for a baby service. This was adapted by the family from Heaven’s Baby Castle by Beverley Stuive, who wrote it in memory of her son Josiah who died in April 2001.

In a baby castle, just beyond our eyes, Our baby plays with angel toys that money cannot buy.

Who are we, to wish that you had known this world of strife?

Now, play on, dearest baby, you have eternal life.

At night, when all is silent and sleep forsakes our eyes We’ll hear your tiny footsteps come running to our side.

Your little hands caress us, so tenderly and sweet We’ll breathe a prayer and close our eyes And embrace you in our sleep.

Feelings we will treasure, Sometimes they’ll make us sad, Because, our precious baby, We are still your mum and dad.

If you have found a poem that is particularly appropriate to a certain situation we would love to hear from you. Send your contributions to poetry@silverdove.org.uk Peter Wyllie is an independent funeral celebrant and president of the AOIC. For more information please visit www.silverdove.org.uk or www.independentcelebrants.com

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Coffin special

Traditional coffins Showcasing a selection of the latest sleek casket and coffin designs

Wells Caskets has supplied children’s caskets and cribs to the funeral trade for 30 years. Its ‘soft feel’ pleated caskets (pictured) are covered with 100 per cent cotton needle cord and trimmed with white, blue or pink taffeta. Inside, the pillow, sides and bottom are thickly padded and covered with soft sheet. They are finished with white, blue or pink side sheet. “We provide a flexible, reliable service to funeral directors, with guaranteed next day delivery by TNT offered on all individual caskets and cribs,” the company adds.

Information: 01371 851 481

“Batesville Casket Company’s range of white metal caskets covers all customer demands for appearance and all price levels,” says the company. “Lately we have noticed that there has been demand for a white wooden casket, and Batesville is happy to satisfy this demand with the introduction of the Oxford White. This solid hardwood casket in half couch is finished with a high quality white paint finish. It is currently being put into stock in the UK, and will be competitively priced and available for next day delivery from the 1 July.”

Information: 01332 856 372

RBT Supplies’ Buxton Oak casket is fashioned to bring out the timeless strength and beauty of the wood. “For centuries, oak has represented enduring quality and steadfastness, and the Buxton Oak is an exceptional example of all these qualities,” says the company. Made from quality oak in a rich topaz colour with a satin finish, and with a complementary ivory crepe interior, the casket has a lasting personal message holder and an adjustable bed and mattress with fully locking lid. Next day delivery is available.

Information: 0208 684 1667 (Gary Hart) or info@rbtsupplies.com

Coffin special

An established coffin manufacturer with 30 years of experience, Steve Soult Limited offers a traditional service with modern techniques and efficiency. “Throughout our whole range of traditional coffins we offer a fast turnaround on specials; same day if required,” says the company. Its new range of personalised engraved coffins are available throughout the UK, and customers are reporting positive feedback from families who really appreciate the option to have names, poems and images placed directly onto the traditional wood veneer or painted coffins and caskets: “Families are telling us that this makes the funeral a more personal reflection of their loved one’s life.”

Information: 01623 721 123 or www.stevesoult.com

The Curve is a new design of coffin from Wealden Coffins.

Constructed in the UK from managed softwood, the company says that the Curve offers a new dimension in coffin design, which sets it aside from other timber coffins. “Firstly, the curved timber profile combined with soft rope handles adds a more gentle and less austere design to the traditional box coffins. Secondly, the Curve is available in a number of different finishes to closer meet the needs and personality of the occupant,” it explains. The coffin comes in a natural wood finish, a single colour paint finish or a hand-painted design, depending on requirements.

Information: 01580 761 097 (Andy Clarke) or www.wealdencoffins.co.uk

The Heartwood range from JC Atkinson offers a comprehensive range of tradition coffins, caskets and coffin furniture. Consisting of wood effect, veneered, semi-solid and solid coffins as well as a range of tradition caskets, the Heartwood range also includes high quality ashes caskets and an extensive range of coffin furniture, such as metal and plastic handles, name plates, frills and gown sets. “Our manufactured heartwood coffins and caskets are made to exacting quality and environmental standards in our award-winning facility in the UK,” the company adds.

Information: www.coffins.co.uk

“With the average adult’s weight considerably more than it was 30 years ago, this coffin-shaped casket is an ideal alternative for the larger person,” says Bradnam Joinery Ltd. The hip and shoulder areas of the Carlton are the same width, but a tapered head and foot help to retain the traditional coffin shape. Built using high quality oak veneer on MDF, the Carlton can be supplied fitted with a wide range of handles and wreath holders.

Information: 01440 761 404 or www.bradnamjoinery.co.uk

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28

Coffin special

The clouding of the beer Ursula Williams tells the especially tangled

tale of a recent crazy coffin commission…

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ournalists, TV crews, and radio reporters; some of the customers for crazy coffins become inured to this hardy and intrusive breed. But Isle of Man brewer and hotelier Martin Brunschweiler had so far eluded all publicity about the coffin he bought pre-need.

In fact, you could call it a news blackout.

Accordingly, I contact him to suggest an interview for Funeral Service Times. “It will be a scoop!” I say. He agrees, albeit guardedly.

I set sail for the Isle of Man and, just as the ship is docking, call him to arrange a meeting at the Bay Hotel. “Not here!” comes his anguished cry. “I’ll meet you at the brewery.”

As I hop off the bus outside the Hop Garden at Santon, a burly figure emerges from what appears to be a squat brown motorised beer bottle parked before the pub.

In fact, I recognise the vehicle as the very spit of the crazy coffin I’ve come to talk about.

“It’s my only car,” Martin explains, almost sheepishly. “My run-around. I’ve had it 25 years. Everyone on the island recognises it.” No wonder! It’s a fantastical hybrid of a beer bottle atop a Citroen 2cv chassis, created by his motor-engineer brother Andy.

Martin hurries up to greet me, as if anxious that no one should spot me and ask the reason for my visit. He ushers me beyond the pub and through the entrance to the brewery yard. Here we meet Curley, the chief brewer, who climbs out of another bottle – this time the company car – and before I can protest that I’ve come about the coffin, I am swept off on a tour of Bushy’s beer (‘The Ale of Man’) in all its phases of production.

A good hour later, there’s not much I don’t know about brewing, but I know nothing about why Martin chose to buy a coffin. He seems to be in the rudest of health. With just 10 minutes before I need to dash for the homeward ferry, I corner Martin in his office, determined to broach the ‘C’ word. Again

the hunted expression flits across his face. It turns out that no one on the island knows about the coffin – not even his wife!

“Don’t worry,” I reassure him, “none of your family or friends are likely to read Funeral Service Times – it’s a trade magazine – so your secret is safe!” Convinced by my reasoning, Martin begins to confide.

He had seen a picture of Paa Joe’s Ghanaian cola bottle in a magazine some time ago, and was at once smitten with the desire to have a Bushy’s beer bottle as his own coffin. Beginning to look for a manufacturer, his research threw up Vic Fearn & Company, and its offshoot Crazy Coffins. Soon, he was corresponding with David Crampton. But discussion of Bushy’s beer and its accompanying website inevitably led to the disclosure of the bottle car, and our coffin makers and designers at once fell under Andy’s Citroen spell. So began the process of copying the car, rather than the simple bottle…

The jobs were parcelled out. George Spencer, a cabinet-maker by trade, doesn’t trust bits of paper; he drew the chassis parts full size, on sheets of MDF. He then took bendy ply, and started on the bottle. The neck was particularly tricky, because glass is blown or moulded, and timber never is.

George’s colleagues then conducted spells

of grinding, sanding and shaping, to make the lamps, the mudguards, and the wheels.

Richard Mullard then took the bottle car to bits, painting each part and laying it to dry.

At some point I assured Martin that we’d put the bottle car together, and deliver it, incognito, to the Isle of Man. And so I re-embarked at Douglas; my conscience as clear as it could be. The coffin was as good as finished, yet Martin’s secret would go with him to the grave.

But the sleuths of Fleet Street were not to be appeased. A week prior, a photographer had visited the factory – he was a freelancer, and so he didn’t know the destination of his photos. But it was just as I was sailing back to England that a picture of the Bushy’s beer coffin appeared on the Daily Mail website!

Within the hour, the editor of the Isle of Man’s main newspaper had called our office, and had located David Crampton. “What’s this bottle car coffin?” he enquired. “It’s for a customer,” David tactfully explained.

“But it’s just like the one that Martin drives around the Isle of Man, to promote his Bushy’s beer.” “Er, yes,” David reluctantly agreed. “But Martin isn’t dead,” the editor continued, “I just saw him...”

The moral of this tale?

‘O what a cloudy beer we brew, When first we obfuscate what’s true!’

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COFFIN SPECIAL

Unique ways to say goodbye Tara Christopher takes a look at an increasingly

popular coffin personalisation option, and the positive effect it can have for the bereaved

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family’s options when it comes to the funeral of a loved one are changing.

There are now so many possibilities in terms of where to hold the funeral, who officiates and what content can be included, that it seems only natural for the choice of coffin to extend further, allowing families to honour and remember the life they have gathered to celebrate in new and more personal ways.

Along with an astounding array of coffins that can now be selected and crafted for a family to best reflect the personality and character of their loved one, there are now increasing options with regard to how the coffin is then included in the ceremony by the family and friends of the person who has died.

This type of inclusion can be undertaken in a wide variety of ways; inviting the mourners to sign a beautiful white coffin with their own personal messages of love and remembrance, or asking mourners to attach a photo or a collage of materials or small mementos that have significance to their loved one are both ways of making a unique tribute.

The photos that you can see within this article come from Greenfield Creations, with the kind permission of one of their customers. These wonderful people were a family who decorated their loved one’s coffin with words and images to make it extraordinarily personal, unique and a fitting part of their tribute to their loved one.

These are just some of their thoughts, which with their kind permission and that of Greenfield Creations I have been permitted to share with you...

“Fiona was 52 when she died and the last two weeks of her life were hell on earth for us. We had to watch her die and the feeling

of helplessness was profound. There was absolutely nothing we could do to stop her impending death – we had no control of her illness; she was too young to die; she was leaving a young child behind; and it was a deeply traumatic experience. But how my family and I said ‘goodbye’ was very much within our control, and our experience was beyond amazing.

“My mother pointed out that at a regular funeral the coffin is largely ignored. I myself have always felt a sense of separation, as though there is some sort of invisible barrier between yourself and the coffin. Instead, Fiona’s coffin became a focal point and an integral and important part of the service, and it felt very holistic.

“I believe this experience has helped massively in my sense of grief and I can honestly say that the experience of decorating Fiona’s coffin is one of the most memorable, transformational and uplifting experiences of my life.

“For most people a funeral is a morbid, dark, sombre occasion, and a day that you

‘just have to get through’. This was far from the case for us – yes, we shed many tears, but it has left us with extraordinary memories of togetherness, fun, love and celebration.”

The many and varied ways that we can make a coffin individual allow us to make our goodbyes to those we have lost even more personal and relevant to their character and beliefs.

Bringing our loved ones right into the heart of the ceremony in this manner is often a very beautiful and inclusive way for those gathered to mourn, to remember and to say their goodbyes.

These actions provide a way of focusing on the person who has passed and personalising their goodbye; a way of demystifying the process of the service and what happens within a funeral ceremony; and finally (and perhaps most importantly of all) it is a way of adding an element of positive empowerment to the family, allowing them to experience the funeral, as Fiona’s family did, as a moment of togetherness, love and celebration.

Tara Christopher is an independent funeral celebrant working in the Midlands area.

For more information please call 07535 142 401 or visit www.tarachristopher.co.uk

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Coffin special

Eco-friendly coffins A range of designs suitable for those who are looking for ‘greener’ alternatives

Tributes Ltd’s Willow and Bamboo coffin designs have been developed over years of consultation and feedback from both funeral directors and crematoria. “We recognise that the usability of our products is as important as how they look and we work very hard to ensure they meet the needs of all those involved. We are pleased and proud of the positive feedback we receive, but we never rest on our laurels, and are always happy to make adjustments to specifications if required,” says products director Gavin Wood, adding: “Our policy is to work with funeral directors and we will not sell our coffins, or disclose pricing information, to the public.”

Information: 0845 388 8743 or www.tributes.ltd.uk Linda Robinson is a professional end-of-life carer, and her clients, tucked up in warm, cosy beds, often admit to a dread of being carried out in a wooden box. When her children were young, the family wrapped dead pets in soft woollen jumpers for burial, and inspired by this, Linda decided to try and design a more appealing coffin. She came up with a woven pouch made from sheep’s wool and named it the Burial Cloud.

An experienced weaver for over 25 years, Linda sourced wool from local rare-breed farmers, some of whom were burning the fleeces as there was no profitable market for them. She crafted local oak and pine wood to make a supporting underboard, and used calico to make an inner liner.

Information: linda@burialcloud.co.uk

Allsops has been steadily selling willow coffins across the UK mainland since 2005.

The range offers the traditional coffin shape with flat ends, as well as the rounded-end style.

A few years ago Allsops added the eye-catching pastel colour coffins (pictured) to its range, along with matching willow ashes caskets, both of which have proved to be very popular.

Information: 01903 213 991, info@allsops.net or www.allsops.net

At least 70 per cent post consumer waste, sourced from local mills, is used to make Greenfield Creations’ biodegradable cardboard coffins, with any new fibre or wood pulp being purchased from reputable sources which adhere to the forestry management and sustainability body the FSC. Water-based glues are used during construction, while calico lining and natural rope handles ensure maximum biodegradability. There is also a low resource manufacturing process and low emission levels during cremation. The finished products, and all materials, are manufactured in the UK; and the cardboard coffins are suitable for both burial and cremation services.

Information: 01440 788 866 or www.greenfieldcreationscoffins.co.uk

Coffin special

FTP Ecocoffins Ltd, which stocks one of the most comprehensive ranges of environmentally friendly woven coffins in the UK, says it is delighted with the response to the latest addition to its collection – the Abaca coffin. The Abaca model is woven in the Philippines (in both traditional and oval shape) and provides much-needed employment in the impoverished rural community as part of an ongoing social welfare programme. The coffin is a gentle cinnamon colour with cane trimming. “FTP Ecocoffins also holds a good stock of all of its varieties of woven coffins, including the Brown Willow, Light Willow, Water Hyacinth, Seagrass and Bamboo models, and is able to deliver within 24 hours,” the company adds.

Information: 01584 819 981 or admin@finetimberproducts.co.uk

Colourful Coffins’ range of cardboard coffins are produced in an extra-strong honeycombed material made from 100 per cent recycled paper, and are now also available with rope handles, underlining the company’s commitment to using sustainable products. Managing director Mary Tomes says that Colourful Coffins’ range of designs is increasing all the time, as more and more families choose cardboard coffins. For example, “with a magnificent field of poppies set against a stunning sunset, a lasting symbol of remembrance is captured in a moment of time by Colourful Coffins on the beautiful cardboard coffin pictured.”

Information: 01865 779 172 or enquiries@colourfulcoffins.com

The latest additions to Ecoffins’ range of eco-friendly coffins are the White Willow coffins, manufactured to complement the company’s ‘toffee coloured’ partners. The White Eco Pod is shown here, but the very popular Highsted and Cromer coffins are also produced in this colour. “Initially launched at the NFE last year, the coffins are now widely available in all sizes and are becoming as popular as our traditional coloured coffins,” the company adds.

Information: 01795 830 688 or www.ecoffins.co.uk

“Willow coffins are now enjoying a resurgence in popularity as a widely accessible alternative to traditional wooden coffins, offering personalisation and affordability as well as fulfilling the green credentials necessary for a ‘natural burial’,” says WinterWillow. “Our coffins are eco-friendly alternatives to mainstream, mass-produced items, displacing plastics and other environmentally damaging materials. We use raw materials sourced from Somerset; FSC-approved wood; plain, unbleached calico liners; biodegradable cardboard pillows and poly liners; and water-based glue. The absence of metals, lacquers and varnishes in our coffins, and their rapid natural degradation, appeals widely to customers with environmental concerns.”

Information: 01223 518 140 or www.winterwillow.org.uk

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36

Coffin Special

Moving with the times

Having recently adopted new technology and added to its website, Greenfield Creations is once again demonstrating its understanding of modern-day society, as managing director William Hunneybel explains Firstly, can you update us on all of the developments that have taken place at Greenfield Creations since we last spoke in August 2011?

We have made some changes at Greenfields since we last spoke to you. Our team has increased and Jonny (pictured right), initially a student with us, has now taken over as the art studio manager and has his own team. We also have two new designated drivers for the UK and have linked up with another external courier company for our European deliveries. We have improved our website to make coffin selection easier, and have incorporated a new ‘latest news’ page to highlight a few of the projects we have been getting involved with.

Which new products, designs and innovations have you launched during that time, and how have they been received so far?

Our product has stayed the same – why change something that has worked so well over the last 22 years? Design has moved on quite considerably though, with our 3D coffin creator. More and more families want to be involved with their coffin designs, and with the use of the 3D simulator they can have a clear understanding of how their design ideas will be depicted from all angles.

We also have a new ‘coffin of the week’ section on our website. The coffin of the week, so far, has been designed using current events, issues or special calendar dates just to give an example really that ‘any design’ based on ‘any theme’ can be produced, and we have had a lot of positive feedback about it.

Can you give us an example of a recent design that Greenfields has created?

Jonny, our art studio manager, recently dealt closely with a family with a new bespoke casket-style coffin. This coffin was to be a personal reflection of a well travelled man. He had travelled the world during his lifetime and his family requested that his coffin looked

like his suitcase. They wanted us to incorporate images representing all of the favourite destinations around the world that he had visited.

The family gave us specific drawings of what they expected from us, and the design was then created from scratch; each strap and buckle image selected to get the most accurate representation of his travelling suitcase. Jonny worked closely with the family to get all of the colours, straps and labels to their exact requirements.

Remaining on the subject of the future, what are your goals and hopes for Greenfield Creations for the rest of 2012?

As we enter our 23rd year producing cardboard coffins and cardboard pictorial coffins, we are really looking forward to the coming year. We are pleased that the funeral profession, in recent years, is taking more of an interest in offering families a wider range of coffin selections.

We consider this, as well as the increase in public enquiries, to have contributed to our growth in sales. These days, the public are very aware that they can have the coffin of their choice and of the various types of coffins available, including very personal, bespoke designs; and if the funeral director will not source it for them, they will source it themselves. Moving forward we hope more and more funeral directors will offer ‘all’ options for a family to have what they really want, and not just what is available ‘off the rack’.

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coffin special

Going for green

Louise Hoffman catches up with JC Atkinson’s sales and marketing manager, Mark Morris…

Firstly, for those who aren’t yet acquainted with JC Atkinson, can you outline the company’s history?

JC Atkinson was founded in 1936 by the present owner’s grandfather John Clifford Atkinson; from what I understand he founded the firm in order to supply solid coffin sets to local funeral directors. John’s son Alan took over and ran the business from the 1960s until he retired in the 1990s and handed the company over to the present owner Julian Atkinson. Julian then joined the company full time in the late 1990s after selling a security business, and Ian Handley joined the company and became a co-director in 2005.

Since Julian took over, the company has seen some dramatic changes, including a relocation of the main production site and a modernisation programme headed up by Ian. Indeed, Ian has played a key part in the success that JC Atkinson has achieved over the past few years. It always amazes me how much activity and innovation goes on at the company.

I believe you now offer several product ranges – what does each one consist of?

We offer a comprehensive range of coffins and caskets, the majority of which we manufacture ourselves, and others such as the wool coffin we buy in. We have given each range its own identity in order to be able to showcase its individual features and benefits; for instance our Reflections picture coffins have different attributes and appeal compared to our Country Range of products.

JC Atkinson has developed into a single point supplier for our customers, enabling us to provide the choice, value and service a funeral director requires all from one source – a one-stop-shop, so to speak.

Your portfolio is of course founded on ecoprinciples, but how else has and is JC Atkinson working to benefit the environment?

Many people think that having eco-principles is a choice, but for us it’s not – it’s a question of development. We have examined and audited what we purchase, how we manufacture and how we deliver, and by breaking each activity down we then see how we can restructure the activity to lessen its impact on the environment.

These activities have attracted outside interest, as a result of which Julian advises and lectures interested parties on a local and national level. He has spoken at Newcastle and Teesside University on sustainable business and to national government level as a member of the All Party Committee for Climate Change. JC Atkinson also donates towards selected environmental causes.

How have your efforts in the ‘green’ arena been recognised, by the funeral profession, the public and others?

JC Atkinson has entered and won a number of awards for environmental excellence. Arguably the best known was our being named the Sunday Times Best Green Company, but other accolades include the National Chamber of Commerce and the North East Business awards.

JC Atkinson has also just been re-certified with the Carbon Trust Standard. Why? Because we have cut our carbon footprint year-on-year, measured relatively and in absolute terms. Again – we do what we say we are going to do, and this sets us apart from others who tend to make empty ‘green wash’ statements.

Being specific to the funeral trade, Julian is a member of the NAFD Environmental Advisory Group, founded to advise the membership on environmental matters, and regularly meets with customers to speak on the subject.

At a recent meeting of the Funeral Furnishing Manufacturing Association (FFMA), attendees were informed of health and safety problems being posed by some eco-coffins on the market – such as lack of grip on the cremator rollers, and extended cremation cycles – and a call was made for industry-wide standards to be introduced. What are your thoughts on this?

We think this is a good idea as long as it’s professionally undertaken and inclusive. For some time we have ensured that all of the coffins we sell – be it the standard wood coffin, wool or willow – are correctly modified for cremation. This we have done by making judgements based on experience, testing and listening to the feedback given by individual crematoria.

If the associations can come together to provide central guidance we think that would be a good thing.

We would like to see full global warming potential assessments done on all products, and cremation assessments on the burning emissions. I think we could make much better progress if this was done.

Finally, do you have any new products or services in the pipeline?

We are constantly looking at our products and services to see if we can improve current products or introduce new ones to our extensive portfolio. We have some exciting new products and services coming down our development pipeline, which we will be providing further information on when the time is right.

coffin special

Coffin range

An exciting future We last spoke in August 2011, for the Funeral Service Times ‘green special’ issue. Can you fill us in on all of the developments that have taken place at the company since then?

We have continued to see very substantial growth in sales of our woven coffins and are delighted when new customers tell us that they have found our coffins superior in quality at such a competitive price.

We have launched a range of point-of-sale materials to assist funeral directors, which includes swatch panels, miniature coffins and themed window display kits. We have also increased our warehousing capacity and staffing levels to take account of our increased sales, enabling us to keep very substantial stock levels and to offer next-working-day delivery in most cases.

Has your laser engraving facility proved popular?

What kinds of services has it allowed you to provide?

Our laser engraver has proved invaluable for improving the service we provide to our customers. We engrave plaques on receipt of instructions and are able to dispatch them with the coffins, avoiding delays or the need for separate dispatch. This also gives us the flexibility to make those last minute changes that occasionally arise.

Our product development team have been able to put it to good use in developing bespoke casket designs for our customers and it has also proved very popular for personalising ashes caskets.

POS window display

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Do you have any other recently-launched, or soon-to-be-launched products that you would like to tell us about?

We are very excited about a new product that we are currently developing, which is based on our very popular Scatter Tubes. At present this is being trialed by a specific customer group, but we hope there will be generally available versions in the near future. We will also be launching a new ashes keepsake range in the very near future.

In the previous interview we only touched on the production process involved in creating your woven coffins, which is conducted in China. Can you elaborate on this?

The design process takes place in the UK, and we then liaise closely

Louise Hoffman finds out more about Tributes, its latest product and service offerings, and its future goals, from managing director Steve Hoare

with the weavers to ensure that our designs can be manufactured efficiently. The weavers are very skilled and experienced and often have a valued input into the finished design. Prototypes are trialed in consultation with funeral directors and modifications can be made at this stage, but no design is ever considered ‘fixed’; we are pleased to receive feedback from our customers at any time and are happy to incorporate design modifications to improve usability. We take FDs’ requirements, and those of crematoria, very seriously and always strive to deliver a high-quality and user-friendly range, which is appealing to families and provides good value. We consider the evolution of our product design as an ongoing collaboration between our designers, the craftspeople who weave them, and those who ultimately use them – our customers.

How does this work help the rural communities that you employ?

The need for workers to travel long distances to find employment in factories and cities has resulted in a large number of migrant workers and often means that parents are separated from their children for long periods. Providing work in rural areas allows a regular and reliable source of income ‘out of season’, which enables families to stay together. We hope it will also prevent the gradual decline of rural communities and their ways of life, and the loss of traditional crafts and skills for future generations.

What are your hopes and aims for Tributes Ltd this year?

We are confident in the positive sales trend we are seeing and will continue to focus on maintaining our high standards of service, customer care and product quality to grow our business. We are constantly developing new ideas to offer our customers and we are very proud of our creative approach to product development, which has resulted in some innovative, and extremely popular new products in recent years. It has been interesting, and gratifying in some respects, to see our creations taken up and replicated by others, and we will continue to develop exciting, fresh ideas and products in the year to come and beyond. We will continue to work closely with Allsops CTF Ltd, which is the official distributor of our ashes Willow swatch panels and leaflet stands casket ranges, Tribute Frames and Scatter Tubes.

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Interview

In the bag Andy Steavenson, managing director for Amspac Funeral Bags, provides Louise Hoffman with an outline of the company’s product range

When and how did Amspac Funeral Bags come to be established?

Amspac Funeral Bags started in 2005 and was the first UK supplier of presentation bags specifically designed for the funeral profession. The idea came when I attended a relative’s funeral; the family was presented with the ashes in an unattractive blue and white plastic carrier bag – the sort that is used for groceries – and I remember being shocked and thinking that some of the respect was being lost at such a sensitive time. All of the care that had gone into the planning and funeral seemed to fall down at one of the most pivotal moments. Since then we have grown to become the leading supplier of presentation carrier bags to the UK funeral profession.

What led you to apply your knowledge of bags and packaging to the funeral sector?

Working in the promotional merchandise sector supplying all kinds of bags for all kinds of remits and sectors, I knew that we could provide something better for the funeral profession. It all stems from there – I knew that if I researched the industry standards in terms of size and shapes of caskets, I could source and supply dignified packaging that would provide the attention to detail and respect that was seemingly lacking in the example I had seen.

And how has it enabled you to set your product range and service offering apart from others?

With almost 20 years of experience, I know the materials, shapes and styles that will work most effectively. By applying my product knowledge to the specific needs of the profession I was able to design, source and supply a comprehensive, quality product range that matches the high standards synonymous with the funeral profession, whilst adding a dignified touch to the service it can offer.

What does that product range currently consist of?

Amspac Funeral Bags has a long and proud

reputation for supplying high quality presentation bags to the funeral profession.

Over the years we have learned a great deal about what our clients need and the evolving nature of that need.

The environment has become an issue that society has embraced, and it is only natural that people have extended this responsibility and way of thinking to include how they make arrangements for the passing of loved ones.

We introduced environmentally sound presentation carriers last year and have extended the range to include natural Kraft paper, made from 100 per cent recyclable paper and jute – a natural plant that offers one of the most durable and sustainable materials – as well as the Bio Box Carrier.

Our bags are designed and made to fit the range of urns, caskets and Bio Boxes available on the market, meeting three recognised industry standards. The most popular bags are made from sturdy paper, with gold metal eyelets to provide maximum strength.

We offer a choice of three traditional stock colours: burgundy, dark green and dark blue.

We also work with clients to create bespoke eco-presentation carriers. A good example is the canvas casket presentation bag that we worked with the Midlands Co-operative Funeral Services to create (pictured top right).

All plain bags can be supplied from stock with next-day delivery. We have a low minimum order quantity – usually just 50 bags – and our prices include delivery, which is normally based on a next-day service.

I believe you are also able to personalise the bags…?

Yes we do. Bags can either be supplied plain from stock or personalised with a business name, logo and/or contact details.

We offer overprinting in gold or silver foil with quantities from as little as 50 bags, and delivery from seven to ten days. For our jute bags we offer a screen printing service in a choice of ink colours, with quantities from as little as 100 bags.

To meet specific requirements we can supply a completely bespoke bag in a colour and size of the client’s choice, with a low minimum order of just 250 bags.

Our Far East import service offers the most cost effective service quantities of

500 bags or more, with printing at the time of manufacture, and delivery from eight to twelve weeks from artwork approval.

Finally, what are your plans and goals for the rest of the year?

We are always happy to work with our customers to learn more about their needs and to explore new ideas with them, and we are continually looking at new products and ideas that could extend the service we can offer to their clients. So watch this space!

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Charity spotlight

Making a difference The National Osteoporosis Society explains its work in fighting the pain and disability caused by broken bones

T

he National Osteoporosis Society is the only UK-wide charity dedicated to improving the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis and fragility fractures. We work hard to support people and their families around the UK who are affected by osteoporosis and living with the pain and lasting effects of broken bones.

One in two women and one in five men over the age of 50 will break a bone, mainly because of poor bone health Bone loss occurs naturally in everyone as they get older, but broken bones because of osteoporosis are not an inevitable part of ageing and there is much that can be done to prevent and treat them. The National Osteoporosis Society raises awareness about the importance of healthy bones to people of all ages.

Osteoporosis is very common: • One in two women and one in five men over the age of 50 will break a bone, mainly because of poor bone health.

• Almost three million people in the UK have the disease and there are approximately 300,000 fragility fractures a year.

• A total of 1,150 people are dying every month in the UK as a result of hip fractures.

• There are now roughly 78,000 hip fractures a year. Ten per cent of these people could be dead within 30 days, and 30 per cent within a year.

• The number of people affected by osteoporosis is increasing as the population ages.

Many people don’t even realise they have osteoporosis until they break a bone, and they are often unable to get the information they need from their GP. They can be left feeling isolated and unclear as to what to do next, often frightened even to leave the house for fear of falling and experiencing further fractures.

The National Osteoporosis Society is a lifeline to people across the UK affected by osteoporosis. We run a nurse-led helpline that receives more than 13,000 enquiries a year and we offer caring support together with life-changing information to those who need us most.

We provide a comprehensive range of free publications covering information about the disease; a network of more than 80 local support groups; and since 1994 have dedicated almost £3 million to fund research into the causes and treatments of osteoporosis.

Please help us to continue to help future generations avoid the pain and debilitating effects of broken bones, by recommending the National Osteoporosis Society to your clients as the beneficiary of an In Memory gift.

Charity spotlight

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is the fragile bone disease that causes painful, debilitating and sometimes fatal fractures, particularly of the wrist, hip and spine.

As we get older, our bones become less dense as the structures inside them gradually break down. In people with osteoporosis, this process is exaggerated and leads to their bone structure becoming fragile and much more susceptible to fractures, which can occur often as the result of a minor bump or fall.

There is a very strong family link to osteoporosis, but you can reduce your chances of suffering a fragility fracture through good diet and exercise. We should eat a healthy, balanced and calcium-rich diet and take plenty of exercise to build and maintain our bones. We also need summer sunlight to generate the vitamin D that is essential for healthy bones.

Left: Normal bone Right: Osteoporotic bone © Alan Boyde

Celebrating the life of a loved one You can celebrate the life of a loved one in a fitting way by having their name recorded in the National Osteoporosis Society online memorial book. This special and very personal action means that friends and family can keep their memory alive. The book is accessible through the website, www.nos.org.uk, and offers the opportunity to create a celebration page where friends and family can add photos and written memories for everyone who knew their loved one to read and appreciate.

There is also an opportunity to donate to the vital work of the National Osteoporosis Society. Over 228 families have contributed to the book since it was launched. We know the online memorial book offers peace and something very positive to people who want to remember and celebrate the live of someone very special, at a sad time for family and friends.

Looking to the future When the National Osteoporosis Society was founded in 1986, few people had even heard of osteoporosis and there were no national campaigns to raise awareness of the disease and the steps that can be taken to prevent it. Life for those affected by osteoporosis was tough, especially in terms of diagnosis. The National Osteoporosis Society was set up by doctors at a Bath hospital who realised that people were worryingly unaware of the risks of osteoporosis.

Twenty-six years on and the charity continues its vital work providing a lifeline for the hundreds of thousands of people across the UK affected by this debilitating fragile bone disease.

Our latest campaign ‘for a breakfree future’ sets out our vision to create a brighter future for people with fragile bones through a broad scope of work which positively impacts on people’s lives.

Main image (facing page): Taking steps to understand osteoporosis can change the future for people with fragile bones.

The National Osteoporosis Society receives no government funding and relies on generous voluntary donations to support its specialist, life-changing services. To find out more about how you or your clients can help, please contact Michael Auton on 01761 473 138 or email m.auton@nos.org.uk

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Obituaries

Rest in peace A tribute to some well-known individuals who have sadly passed away during the last month 23 April – LeRoy T Walker (aged 93) LeRoy T Walker was the first African-American president of the US Olympic Committee, from 1992 to 1996. In his role he oversaw the 1996 summer games in Atlanta and led the successful bid to host the 2002 winter games in Salt Lake City. Walker coached numerous Olympic teams before becoming America’s first black coach ahead of the 1976 games in Montreal. He was a qualified doctor, having received a PhD in biomechanics at New York University, and recipient of the US Sports Academy’s Eagle Award for his significant contributions to international sport.

Image: Allan Wa rren

28 April – Patricia Medina (aged 92) Liverpool-born Patricia Maria Medina was a British actress whose looks once led a newspaper to declare her “the most beautiful face in the whole of England”. After winning a film contract competition, Medina built a successful career in Britain before moving to Hollywood and starring in films such as Orson Welles’ Mr Arkadin. Besides her acting, Medina frequently appeared on 50s UK television parlour game What’s My Line? She retired to care for her husband, actor Joseph Cotten, who suffered from cancer, before publishing an autobiography in 1998.

4 May – Adam Yauch (aged 47) Image: Fabio Venni

Better known by his stage name MCA, Adam Nathaniel Yauch was a member of influential hip hop trio the Beastie Boys. Founded in New York in 1979, the Beastie Boys transcended genre, rapping to music they had written and played themselves, to become an influential group in rap and its derivative styles. Besides his music, Yauch was a film director and practising Tibetan Buddhist, who organised several Tibetan freedom concerts. Diagnosed with cancer in 2009, he was unable to join his bandmates during their induction into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame one month before his death.

8 May – Maurice Sendak (aged 83) Maurice Bernard Sendak was a children’s author and illustrator most noted for his 1963 book Where the Wild Things Are. Inspired by a love of Mickey Mouse, Sendak began illustrating at a young age and had publishing successes before the release of his magnum opus. Despite initially courting controversy, Where the Wild Things Are and its disturbinglooking but ultimately cuddly characters resonates with children to this day. Sendak, the first American to receive the Hans Christian Andersen Award for children’s book illustration in 1970, died from stroke complications.

9 May 2012 – Vidal Sassoon (aged 84) Vidal Sassoon CBE was a freedom-fighting hairdresser credited with creating the ‘wash and wear’ hair philosophy.

Before picking up his scissors, he was a member of a London-based Jewish underground organisation that broke up fascist meetings. In 1948 he went to Israel to fight in the Arab-Israeli war before moving back to England to begin his hairdressing revolution. His geometric bob cut and shunning of lacquer proved extremely popular, and was the foundation for his salon and hair product empire. Sassoon received a CBE in the 2009 Birthday Honours and had a documentary film about his life released in 2010. He succumbed to leukaemia after a two-year battle.

Donna Summer, born LaDonna Adrian Gaines, was an American singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the 1970s, during the disco era. She was a five-time Grammy Award winner and the first artist to have three consecutive double albums reach number one on the US Billboard chart. Her most famous singles include I Feel Love, Love to Love You Baby and Hot Stuff. Summer, who was understood to be fighting lung cancer, died in the morning at her home in Key West, Florida. Among those paying tribute to the singer were President Obama (who said “her voice was unforgettable”) and Barbara Streisand.

Image: Harry Wad

17 May 2012 – Donna Summer (aged 63)

20 May 2012 – Robin Gibb (aged 62) British singer-songwriter Robin Hugh Gibb CBE was best known for being a member of the Bee Gees.

The group, co-founded with his twin brother Maurice and older brother Barry, achieved worldwide success and acclaim, helping to define the disco era with hits such as Stayin’ Alive and Jive Talkin.

The Bee Gees received their CBEs in 2002 from the Prince of Wales at Buckingham Palace for their contribution to music. The Bee Gees achieved record sales estimated at 200 million units, and were one of the most successful pop groups of all time. Gibb died from cancer at the London Clinic.

Image: AVRO

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Classified

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YOUR STORY

your story Claire and Rupert Callender, undertaker

owners, The Green Funeral Company, Devon

The Green Funeral Company was founded in 2000. What made you both decide to work in the industry?

Rupert Callender (RC): We set up after I experienced a lot of early bereavement, and consequently a lot of dispiriting funerals that hindered my grief, rather than helping it. I was inspired by the work of Nicholas Albery, and the idea of DIY funerals, which showed me how the funerals I had experienced could have been radically different. Claire became intrigued and joined me, and then we got married. The idea that the work of an undertaker is part of what is described as an ‘industry’ is depressing.

I know it is, but the more we accept that term, the more industrialised the experience becomes, and the more barriers we put between the bereaved and what is really happening.

You are recommended by The Good Funeral Guide.

What do you think makes you stand out from other funeral directors?

RC: It’s just the two of us, so everything that happens, from the first phone call, to picking up and dealing with the body, to sending out the invoice, is done by us. We join the family for the period between the death and the funeral. We become honorary friends. We also create and take the service for nine out of ten of the funerals we do.

Have you had any requests for ceremonies that have stood out?

RC: Open air pyres are something we personally think would address some of the deficiencies of most conveyor belt funerals.

We were asked to do one not long after Carl Marlow helped Davender Ghai cremate someone in Northumberland. We made enquiries, and discovered that the family would probably be arrested, or we would, and at the very least they would have to run a media gauntlet, which we felt wouldn’t be fair to them. We compromised by cremating the deceased beforehand without ceremony, then holding his funeral in a field that the family owned. His ashes were placed in a box on top of an enormous pile of wood, and at the climax to the ceremony, his four sons lit it with flaming arrows. It was quite something. Another recent memorable moment was passing a coffin hand to hand down a narrow pub bar through two lines of mourners. Having said that, the ceremony we did two days ago was also great. It was on a bit of wooden decking next to a stream; the coffin lid was open and willow blossom snowed down on the dead man’s face like confetti, while his children drank champagne and sang You’re so Vain to him.

de-medicalised in the late 60s early 70s.

What’s the biggest challenge you face in your day-to-day job?

CC: Making a living wage.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

CC: Empowering people, going on the journey, and seeing the healing that can come for a family out of a good funeral.

What advice do you have for anyone starting out in the profession?

CC: Do it all. Don’t just be a celebrant or a funeral director – be both; be the change.

RC: Weird though it sounds, try not to have a work persona. Don’t block out all of the terrible sadness, as it’s not really possible.

Instead, move through it.

What changes can you see happening in the future of the profession?

Claire Callender (CC): I see every town and village having its own natural burial ground, and I see families reclaiming a death in the family the way that birth was reclaimed and

If you would like to appear on this page, please send an introductory email to Naida Ally at naida@funeralservicetimes.co.uk