New government guidelines released around attendance at funerals

Previous guidance in Lancashire had set a figure of 10 people for all venues to adhere to; however the government guidance has now changed and the previous restrictions may not apply.

Funeral directors can facilitate funerals locally, depending on the size of their venue, ensuring they adhere to the social distancing of keeping 2m (6ft) away from individuals and numbers should still be kept to a minimum.

Neil Shaw, chief executive of Rossendale Borough Council, who is coordinating the Local Resilience Forum activity for the management of funerals, said: “We know this is a difficult time for everybody and being able to mourn loved ones is part of the healing process. Hopefully this change in guidance will alleviate some of the concerns the community has around attendance at funerals, but we would like to encourage ideally no more than 10 people attend funerals on public health grounds.

“We know social distancing saves lives and mourners should also follow the advice on social distancing when travelling to and from the funeral gathering. Any mourner who is showing coronavirus symptoms (a new continuous cough or a high temperature) should not attend the funeral as they pose a risk to others.”

It is important to ensure that funerals are not delayed and to book at the earliest opportunity, as per the guidelines, to ensure funeral directors are not only able to cope with the increased number of deaths, but also that everyone receives the service they would want for their loved ones.

Further details on the guidance can be found here