Funeral Director Monthly May 2015

FD
M
FUNERAL DIRECTOR MONTHLY
VOLUME 98 | ISSUE 05 | MAY 2015
NFE
PREVIEW
FIND OUT WHO'S ATTENDING
THE 2015 NATIONAL
FUNERAL EXHIBITION
MY LIFE
IN A DAY
JAMES NORRIS, DIGITAL
LEGACY ENTREPRENEUR
GROWING
NEW LIFE
FROM DEATH
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CEO
VIEWPOINT
A newspaper headline that caught my
attention the other day really brought
out the cynic in me. Written under
the snappy banner of HMRC latest
tax avoidance crackdown, I naturally
assumed that our brave boys at the
Treasury, under the guise of the “War
on Austerity”, were about to launch
an assault against either the reviled
Non Doms, hedge fund managers or
investment bankers. How wrong could I
have been! Their newly identified enemy
was the humble church organist.
As many of you know, outside
cathedrals it is rare for any organist to
have full-time jobs and, until recently,
they have always been treated as self
employed for tax purposes. Now it
would appear that these wicked tax
dodgers have come to the attention
of HMRC which has classified them
as being employed by the parish in
which they play. Such wisdom will add
hugely to the administrative burden as
vicars begin to grapple with PAYE tax
codes, holiday pay, pension enrolment,
health and safety and other procedural
bureaucracy, not to mention the
problems for organists themselves.
According to experts on the matter,
deprived of the benefits of selfemployment
the average organist will
lose about £250 a year which, in the
grand scheme of things, may appear to
be a small amount. But it isn't when you
know that few church organists earn as
much as £5,000 a year for their services.
It is surprising that HMRC should take
such a keen interest in this group of
part-timers whilst seemingly ignoring
the aforementioned millionaire tax
dodgers who have smart accountants.
The church organists, who perform
their duties - often out of love for their
music or fellow parishioners - are easy
prey.
Last month, the All Party Parliamentary
Funerals & Bereavement Group (APPG)
was dissolved when the fixed 5-year
Parliament came to an end. Lorely Burt
MP has expertly chaired and led the
Group throughout the last year and we
are extremely grateful to her for all her
support – not only to the NAFD but also
to the entire funeral sector. Without
appearing to be politically biased, we
wish her every success with her reelection
campaign, as we also do to all
other members of the Group who are
seeking re-election for another term.
Once the results of the General Election
are known on 8 May, we will begin the
not so easy task of forming another
APPG at Westminster to work with the
profession until 2020.
As we reach the end of another
Presidential year, may I extend my
thanks to Paul and Sarah for their
commitment to the Association and for
their personal support throughout the
last twelve months. They have been a joy
to work with and it is fitting that tickets
for both the Banquet and partners’
outing at Conference later this month
in May have sold out. It is a measure
of Paul and Sarah’s popularity and the
continuing success of our organisation
that we have had to create a reserve
listing for both events. Fortunately, I do
have a ticket and I am looking forward
to meeting many of you north of the
border later this month.
ALAN SLATER MBE
NAFD CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
3

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4
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FD
M
CONTENTS
COVER STORIES
18 The Urban Death Project
Growing new life from death
26 My Life In A Day
James Norris, digital legacy
entrepreneur
40 It’s ShowTime again!
PROFESSIONAL
DEVELOPMENT
64 NAFD Training Workshops
Bespoke training for NAFD members
REGULARS
03 CEO Viewpoint
06 President’s Perspective
09 Perfect Choice Update
16 Welcome to new Members
33 Around the Regions
34 Members’ News
60 Dispatches
68 In the News
74 Book Review
Peace at the Last: Leading
Funerals Well
78 Letters
80 NAFD Diary
81 Fleet News
FEATURES
12 Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards
18 New NAFD pricing survey
New survey evidences dramatic
rise in disbursements
20 Abolition of the counterpart driving
licence
23 ‘GAME OVER’ Art exhibition set to
open at Birmingham’s Coffin Works
53 Industry News
The Funeral Planning Authority -
what is it all about?
54 New guide to help prepare people on
what to expect when someone they
know is dying
72 Health & Safety
Needlestick safety and regulations
for the funeral service industry
CHARITIES &
BEREAVEMENT
58 Charity Spotlight
Make-A-Wish UK
MEMBER BENEFITS
67 NAFD Fast Track Debt
Recovery Service
Arranging payment instalments
70 Insurance Forum
New Motor Fleet Insurance
partnership
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5

Finally, I want to thank each of
you for the opportunity you have
given me during the past year.
Never in my life did I expect I
would have the opportunity to
serve the NAFD in this way.
PRESIDENT'S
With just a couple of weeks of my Presidential
year remaining, it is hard to believe that
another Conference is almost upon us. As I
look back over the last twelve months I feel
a great deal of pride that each of us is part
of an Association that is seeking to do so
much for its members and, in doing so, is not
segregating the profession but is doing the
opposite through the unity we have. After all,
it is the bereaved who we serve. They each
find unity in the situation they find themselves
in so it is only right that, as a trade association,
we can work together on behalf of those who
work in the communities up and down this
land to ensure the highest level of service is
provided.
When I attended my first NAFD Scottish Area
Federation meeting it was in the late 1990’s
and at a time when I thought the work of the
Association was really to provide a diploma
qualification and organise the odd trade show
for funeral directors to visit. However, it was
only through starting to attend these meetings
and, in turn, working alongside those who
serve bereaved families in other areas, that
I came to appreciate the true work of the
NAFD. Much of that work has come about
as a result of the hard work of Alan Slater,
and it is quite incredible to look back and see
just how much the Association has grown
and blossomed during his tenure. Without
making this sound like Alan’s obituary, I know
that each of us who hold the Association so
close to our heart wonder what the future will
hold as we enter this period of transition and
look to the future without the man we have
all grown to know and respect so much. It is
testimony to Alan that there has been such a
high level of interest in the advertised position
of Chief Executive Officer and, I am led to
believe, many of the applicants have spoken
positively about the proactive way in which
the Association is growing and representing
its members.
Each of you can take great pride as you tell
the public about the NAFD and all that the
Association is doing, not just on your behalf
but also in the interests and protection of the
public.
We employ a team of fully dedicated Standards
& Quality Managers, have a robust inspection
regime and work with members to ensure
they adhere to the Code of Practice and Code
of Professional Standards. For the industry
we provide the gold standard of qualifications
by way of the Diploma in Funeral Arranging
& Administration and the Diploma in Funeral
Directing. These qualifications are constantly
under review to ensure that your employees
who undertake these courses are receiving
training that is always current and relevant to
whatever legislation or guidance is applicable
to our industry. These are, of course, only
the public facing sides of the Association
and, thanks to the good foundations laid
in recent years, we now have access to
Parliamentarians in every part of the UK. This
enables us to work with members across the
country on the issues that are impacting upon
their businesses and bereaved families.
The team at the NAFD PR agency, Wordsmith
Communication, provides support wherever
necessary and each of you can call upon
them whenever you are facing difficult or
challenging situations that may require
support.
Then, of course, there is the members’ benefits
package. This page simply does not provide
enough space to list each benefit but, suffice
to say, you will not find such a comprehensive
package anywhere else in the sector.
Each of the areas I have just outlined have
been introduced or reviewed during the years
that I have been working in the profession.
As we look back it is encouraging to see all
that has been accomplished, but we cannot
be complacent. There will always be new
challenges and the needs of our members
will always be changing so, as we look to the
future, we can do so with anticipation of all
that we are doing and all that we can continue
to do as we enter another chapter of the life of
the NAFD under the guidance of a new Chief
Executive Officer.
Coming from a small family business I am
only too aware of the fear that there is of
change, and the question as to why we should
want to change something when that it the
way it has always been done! However, as
I said in a previous article, change can be
good and we need not fear it. So, as we enter
the coming months with the final stages
of interviews taking place to recruit Alan’s
successor, we have a golden opportunity to
look at the work we are doing and ensure we
are ready to face the challenges that lie ahead
for our Association. That is where the NAFD
Executive is relying on you, the membership,
to ensure that the high standards that our
communities have come to rightly expect are
upheld and maintained as they look to us as
a group of professionals who have signed up
to be part of a trade association that is doing
so much to safeguard the interests of our
industry and bereaved families.
So my Presidential year is drawing to a close
and recent weeks have seen Sarah and I
attend the SAIF Banquet in Windsor. I would
like to thank SAIF Immediate Past President,
Mark Rigden, and his partner Mary for their
company on the chain gain during their term
in office, and also wish new SAIF President,
6

With members at the NAFD
Grampian and Highland Local
Association meeting
L-R: Claire Gresty, David Gresty (President, British Institute of
Funeral Directors), Clive Pearson (President, NAFD Yorkshire
Area Federation), Leeann Pearson (Yorkshire Area President),
myself and Sarah
PERSPECTIVE
Gemma O’Driscoll, well in her Presidential
year.
The next engagement was on home turf
as I attended the NAFD Ayrshire Local
Association meeting, and my thanks to the
chairman, Ian Blair, for all that he does for
the NAFD in this wee corner of the country.
Sadly, Ian’s father, Alexander, had died just a
few days earlier at the age of 94 years. Mr
Blair had served the bereaved for many years
and had been actively involved in the Ayrshire
area until his health began to deteriorate, and
our condolences go to
the family at this time.
The last full meeting
of the Executive was
held later that week.
I want to thank my
fellow members of
the Executive at this
point for their support
during the past year
and, of course, on your
behalf for the time that
they each freely give
to work on behalf of
you, the members. My
next engagement was
to travel to the NAFD
Grampian and Highland Local Association
meeting in Aberdeen where Mark Shaw had
organised a great meeting. I was once again
reminded of the importance of us working
together, no matter what size of business we
come from, as the members discussed the
issues that they were each facing.
That same weekend and I was south again to
the NAFD Yorkshire Area Federation Annual
General Meeting and charity dinner, and my
thanks to its President, Clive Pearce, and best
“
Each of you can take great
pride as you tell the public
about the NAFD and all that
the Association is doing
”
wishes to Michael Lunt who subsequently
took office.
By the time you read this I will have crossed
the water for Northern Ireland Cross Party
Group for Funerals & Bereavement meeting
meeting at the Northern Ireland Assembly
and then the NAFD Northern Ireland Area
Federation meeting. How appropriate that my
last official engagement before Conference
will be on the home patch of NAFD First
Vice-President William Miller. Who knows I
may just give him the chain of office then as
it will save a bit of time
in Edinburgh!There it
is, a year of President’s
Perspectives just like
that, all over and done
with!
As I look back I am thankful
for the opportunity I
have been given to serve
the Association during
the past year. As you
sit reading this article
I hope that it is not the
only contact you have
with the Association. If
it is, then I fear you may
be like I was in the 1990’s
when I mistakenly thought I knew everything
about what the Association was doing and
why it existed. However, as I soon realised,
I was mistaken and it was only through
attending my NAFD Local Association and
Area Federation meetings that I came to
appreciate the true work that was taking
place. In turn, through becoming involved, I
was able to understand the real benefits that
could be found through playing an active role.
If you aren’t doing so then please consider
going along to your meetings. So, if you want
to get something from your Association you
need to get involved. If you choose to remain
insular and do your own thing then I am sorry
that you feel you have nothing to give. As we
give so much to the bereaved, so too do we
have a wealth of knowledge and experience
to bring to our Association so that, together,
we can be the voice of the profession and the
bereaved.
Finally, I want to thank each of you for the
opportunity you have given me during the
past year. Never in my life did I expect I would
have the opportunity to serve the NAFD in
this way. To each of my colleagues at Thomas
Cuthell & Sons I thank you for doing the
real work during this past year. It has been
frustrating at times to have to walk away from
my bereaved families but it has also been
immensely reassuring to know that they have
been in your own hands and, therefore, still
receiving a seamless service. To my father
Colin, sister Michelle and, of course, Sarah,
I thank you all for your support whenever it
was required. It is by the grace of God that I
have served as President and I am thankful
to Him for the people that I have met and the
opportunities I have been given. It has been
humbling to see the high esteem in which
the Association is held by so many across
the country. So, as I have been given this
wonderful opportunity in the past year it is my
prayer that you will each be ever mindful of
the responsibility and opportunities you are
given each day as people turn to you.
With Every Blessing.
Paul
7

Call us old-fashioned...
but we take financial security seriously.
When a family trusts your business with a
pre-paid funeral plan, you want to be
confident that the plan will pay out what
you expect at the right time. If it doesn't,
you’re placed in a very difficult situation.
At Perfect Choice, we believe that every
penny your customer pays for their funeral
should be held securely. That’s why Perfect
Choice funds are held in whole of life
policies that are subject to regulation by
the Prudential Regulation Authority and
Financial Conduct Authority.
With our exceptional guarantees and
no-nonsense approach to protecting your
clients’ funds, Perfect Choice is the power
behind your promise.
Perfect Choice Funeral Plans are managed
and operated by NAFD Services Limited.
Call 0800 633 5626
Visit www.perfectchoicefunerals.com
8
Reg. office: 618 Warwick Road, Solihull, West Midlands B91 1AA. Company no. 02644860.

PERFECT CHOICE
NEWS AND VIEWS
AN UPDATE ON PERFECT CHOICE FUNERAL PLANS FROM NAFD SERVICES LIMITED
BY CHRIS CLARK, HEAD OF ECCLESIASTICAL LIFE LTD
I am pleased to report that plan sales reached a record level again
in 2014, growing by 20% over 2013. In addition, plan values
grew by 21% with an average pre-payment amount of £3,233
(excluding the management fee). The fourth quarter results were
particularly impressive with nearly 30% of the year’s plans sales
being received during that period. The first quarter of 2015 has
also started positively for Perfect Choice with higher plan sales
than during the same period in 2014.
At the present
time it is
estimated that
approximately
10% of funerals
are funded by
pre-payment
plans
Last year the Perfect Choice team
stepped up its activity to help Perfect
Choice supporters raise their profile
in the territories in which they operate.
This has proved to be successful for a
number of firms that have been able to
secure more plan sales as a result of,
for example, arranging targeted leaflet
drops in local neighbourhoods with
the support of Perfect Choice. Other
local marketing initiatives that support
both at-need and pre-need business
development include assisting firms
with public relations opportunities
and advertising campaigns in local
media. I urge all firms that use Perfect
Choice to familiarise themselves with
the Perfect Choice “marketing toolkit”
and engage with their Perfect Choice
Relationship Manager to develop a
plan of action for their businesses. At
a time when funeral plans are being
distributed through so many channels
it is very encouraging to know that local
promotional and public relations activity
can be used successfully to make sure
that families visit their local funeral
director to arrange their funeral plan.
As many members will know, Perfect
Choice has always been cautious about
developing funeral plan sales through
third party distributors. We are now
seeing plans sales slowly increase from
a small and select group of partners
with which we have developing
relationships. Sales volumes remain
modest at this stage but the quality is
good and, to date, none of the Perfect
Choice plans that have been introduced
have been cancelled, which suggests
that the sales have been conducted
responsibly by our third party business
partners. We will continue to proceed
with caution, as we believe that
selling funeral plans via third parties
represents one of the major risk areas
for the funeral plan industry.
The Perfect Choice team frequently
hears about members of the public
who have been contacted by other
plan providers or their agents and feel
unreasonably pressured into buying
a plan. Some of our competitors may
achieve short term sales targets by
selling funeral plans over the telephone
to elderly people via commission only
sales people, but that type of approach
is not right for Perfect Choice. We
would rather grow our business steadily
in what we believe to be the right way.
Other issues that we hear about on a
regular basis relate to the high levels
of commissions and charges that
are often deducted by plan providers
from the customer’s payment. Most
NAFD members will be aware of
examples where plan holders have paid
significantly more for their funeral plan
than the amount that is offered to the
funeral directing firm to service the
plan. This lack of transparency is no
longer associated with the majority of
other financial products that are sold
to consumers and presents further
potential for reputational risk for the
funeral planning industry. Failing to
disclose information about customer
payments cannot be the right direction
for our business - and it certainly is
not the right one for Perfect Choice.
It can only be a matter of time before
the consumer press picks up on these
practices.
At the present time it is estimated that
approximately 10% of funerals are
funded by pre-payment plans. As more
9

plans are sold and this percentage
rises it becomes increasingly important
for pre-payment funds to be held in full,
so that plans are allocated to funeral
directors at a fair price. Ultimately,
we believe that funeral directors will
pay the price by having to accept lower
payments for their services, if plan
providers apply onerous charges and
pay high commissions to third parties.
This may not always be immediately
apparent but, in the long term,
sustaining high pay-outs, whilst funding
high expenses, presents an interesting
challenge for plan providers that are
attracting plan sales from third party
agents and other expensive distribution
channels.
As far as we can tell, Perfect Choice
is the only plan provider to ensure
that every penny of the customer’s
funeral pre-payment is held securely
in a whole of life insurance policy. At
the present time, the life insurance
policies provide a guarantee that the
pre-payment amounts will be adjusted
in line with the Retail Prices Index (RPI)
over the life of the plan. On the basis
that the performance of a surprisingly
high number of investment funds has
failed to outstrip inflation in recent
years, we believe that the RPI basis for
adjusting plan values has served us
well. We are keeping the position with
regard to the investment arrangements
that underpin Perfect Choice under
review as the financial guarantees
are expensive to secure in the current
financial climate and the short term
outlook suggests that inflation will be
running at a low level.
The Directors are focused on making
sure that Perfect Choice is well
placed for long term and sustainable
business growth. They are all funeral
directors ourselves and understand the
pressures that NAFD members have
to contend with to ensure that their
own businesses are well positioned
for future growth in an increasingly
competitive funeral planning market.
The funeral planning market is set to
continue to grow in the years ahead
and we want to make sure that Perfect
Choice supporters have the opportunity
to share in that growth. Now is the
right time to move Perfect Choice onto
a new level whilst making sure that
Perfect Choice always represents a
responsible, sustainable and secure
business model that NAFD member
firms can use with confidence to
support their pre-payment business.
NAFD Services would like to conclude
by thanking those firms that use
Perfect Choice Funeral Plans for their
continued support and remind them
that treating funeral directors and plan
holders in a fair and transparent way
remains at the heart of what we do.
If you would like to find out more about
Perfect Choice Funeral Plans please
call the Perfect Choice team on 0800
633 5626, or contact them by email at
perfectchoice@nafds.co.uk
10

11

12
EPRIV

THE NAFD IS
RECEIVING
MORE AND
MORE CALLS
FROM MEMBERS
ENQUIRING
ABOUT
DEPRIVATION
OF LIBERTY
SAFEGUARDS
(DOLS). THE
FOLLOWING
INFORMATION
SHOULD
PROVIDE A
BACKGROUND
AND EXPLAIN
WHAT TO DO IF
YOU ARE FACED
WITH SUCH A
SITUATION.
ATION
OF LIBERTY SAFEGUARDS

THE DEPRIVATION
OF LIBERTY
SAFEGUARDS
ARE PART OF THE
MENTAL CAPACITY
ACT 2005. THEY AIM
TO MAKE SURE THAT
PEOPLE IN CARE
HOMES, HOSPITALS
AND SUPPORTED
LIVING ARE LOOKED
AFTER IN A WAY
THAT DOES NOT
INAPPROPRIATELY
RESTRICT THEIR
FREEDOM.
Part 1 of the Coroners and Justice Act
2009 introduced new Coroners’ rules
and regulations and new statutory
guidance for bereaved families, and
a consultation paper setting out
the proposals for implementing the
Coroners’ reforms in Part 1 of the
Act ran from 1 March 2013 to 12 April
2013.
There becomes a legal duty to
inform the Coroner of any death
that has occurred whilst a person is
subject to the Deprivation of Liberty
Safeguards. The responsibility
to notify is shared between the
supervisory body and the managing
authority. Whilst local authorities
have been previously instructed
by the Department of Health to
inform the Coroner of a death whilst
under the Deprivation of Liberty
Safeguards, the new Coroners’
and Justice Act formalises this as
a legal duty. Therefore, managing
authorities (care homes and
hospitals) have a duty to notify the
Coroner of any death occurring
whilst the deceased was subject to
homes and hospitals) to notify the
Coroner has serious consequences.
NAFD members have recently
begun to encounter circumstances
where an expected death has
occurred in a nursing home and it
has been necessary for the death
to be reported to the Coroner as the
person who died was subject to a
DoLs order. It has been interpreted
by some hospices and care homes
that they must apply for a DoLs
the moment that a patient loses
consciousness before dying.
If this is done it will require that the
death is reported to the Coroner who
will carry out a “desk inquest” which
will take 2-3 days. Technically,
this would require that the body is
removed to the Coroner’s mortuary
by the Coroner’s contractor.
DoLs orders should only be in place
for patients who are in local authority
care, NHS care or care in another
setting paid for by the local authority
or the NHS. Therefore, the care
“it will require that the death is
reported to the Coroner who will
carry out a “desk inquest” which
will take 2-3 days”
detention under the Deprivation of
Liberty Safeguards.
Note that a person may also be
subject to a ‘deprivation of liberty’
whilst in a domestic setting, such
as supported living arrangements,
where the State is responsible
for imposing such arrangements.
Whilst such situations do not come
within the remit of the Deprivation
of Liberty Safeguards (they must
instead be authorised by the Court
of Protection), the same procedure
should be followed for informing the
Coroner.
The term ‘death whilst in state
detention’ is added to ‘death in
custody’. When the death is likely
to be related to the trauma of being
deprived of liberty there must now be
a formal inquest with a jury. Failure
by the managing authority (care
team at these locations would know
whether a DoLs has been applied for.
It is unlikely that the doctor would be
aware of a DoLs being in place.
It would seem from a Minister’s
response to a question on DoLs
in Parliament in March that they
will be looking to legislate or
amend legislation to overcome the
confusion that is being caused by
the implementation of this aspect
of the Act. The NAFD will keep a
close eye on this issue and report
back to members via the regular
e-newsletter and in future editions
of Funeral Director Monthly.
If you have any queries, please
contact Jeremy Field, the NAFD
Executive member who has
been monitoring this issue, on
01444 230430 or by email to
jeremy.field@cpjfield.co.uk
14

M a n u
fa c t u rers a nd
s u p p l i e r s o
f q u a l i t y f i t t i n g s a n d l i n i n g s t o t h e d i s c e r ning Funer a l D i r e c t o r
We’re at NFE 2015
We look forward to seeing you for
a chat, and to see some of our
new and innovative products.
Turn right once you’re in the
main hall - we’ll be
on stand 280!
See you there!
For further information see our website
www.allsops.net
or call us on 01903 213991
or email info@allsops.net
15

WELCOME TO
NEW MEMBERS
WELCOME TO CHESTER PEARCE FUNERAL SERVICE
Based in the town of Bournemouth,
Chester Pearce Funeral Service is
privately owned and offers a range of
services. Chester Pearce works closely
within the community, and supports a
number of military units in the event of
a fatality in their ranks. The company is
passionate about training and education,
working closely with nursing homes and
hospices -. Its crisis management teams
in the US and UK respond to multiple
fatality incidents worldwide, from air
crashes to natural disasters.
Founder Stephen Nimmo has worked
in the funeral service since 1997, for
both family and corporate companies. In
2010 he decided to take his considerable
experience and benefit people beyond
just arranging funerals. Stephen wanted
to offer a much more comprehensive
and flexible service than was currently
availableand Chester Pearce was born.
Stephen took the maiden names of his
Grandmothers Harriet Chester and
Beatrice Pearce and used them in his
company name.
In July 2011 Stephen graduated from
the University of Bath with a Degree
in Funeral Services, and was awarded
Professional Membership of the Society
for Bereavement Practitioners. In
early 2014 Stephen’s sister Elizabeth
Normandale joined the company,
making it a real family affair. In June
2014 he was able to open his first
premises with full facilities.
Elizabeth said: “Once the company's
premises were established, the next
FTP Half Page ADVERT 2014.qxd:Layout 1 27/3/14 16:58 Page 1
natural step was to join the ranks of
the National Association of Funeral
Directors, benefiting from its expertise
across a number of areas of the
business, while giving families peace of
mind that the company is backed by a
professional association.”
ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY COFFINS
Elegantly made by skilled craftsmen
Previously Fine Timber
Products Limited
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Water Hyacinth
Traditional
& Oval Shaped
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DESIGN
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Full range
of sizes
available
The Old Rectory Boraston Tenbury Wells Worcestershire WR15 8LH
Tel 01584 819981 Fax 01584 819483
admin@finetimberproducts.co.uk www.ftp-eco-coffins.co.uk

FUNERAL
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Funeral Giving is run by MuchLoved,
the bereavement charity that has pioneered
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Designed for funeral organisations wanting to offer
clients superb grief support along with an integrated
Funeral Announcement & Donations facility.
Find out how we can help you
at www.funeralgiving.org
E: support@muchloved.com
T: 01494 722818
17

NEW NAFD
PRICING SURVEY EVIDENCES DRAMATIC RISE IN DISBURSEMENT
RESEARCH AMONGST NAFD MEMBER FIRMS ACROSS THE COUNTRY BY FWD RESEARCH ON BEHALF
OF THE NAFD HAS REVEALED THAT THE MAIN TREND IN THE LAST FIVE YEARS FOR THE SECTOR HAS
BEEN INCREASED CREMATORIUM CHARGES IN PARTICULAR, FOLLOWED BY INCREASED COSTS OF
DISBURSEMENTS, LOCAL AUTHORITY FEES AND MINISTERS’ FEES.

Trends in funeral costs over last 5 years
TRENDS IN FUNERAL COSTS OVER LAST 5 YEARS
Floral tributes increasing in cost
2.2%
Non-religious services officiant's
fees are expensive
3.0%
More bespoke funerals have driven
costs up
4.5%
Coffin charges have increased
5.2%
Limousine charges have increased
because of fuel price increases
7.5%
Although inflation, raw materials and
wage increases have had an impact
on the cost of operating a funeral
business, the majority of funeral firms
responding to the survey said that that
their own fees have hardly changed
over the same period.
Price increases with inflation
Funeral costs have increased
steadily
Our prices have changed very little
to remain competitive
Ministers fees have increased
Local Authority's prices have gone
up considerably
9.0%
14.9%
15.7%
17.9%
20.9%
Also key to changes in the cost
of a funeral is the trend to more
personalised funerals.
The average cost of an at-need
funeral based on a cremation service
“
- including funeral firm’s ’ costs but
excluding disbursements - in 2014
was £2,030. An at-need funeral, with 9
a burial, on the same basis came in at
£2,192 on average.
London remains, unsurprisingly, the
most expensive region for funeral
costs, while the cheapest region
depends on the type of funeral. The
average cost of an at-need funeral
based on a cremation service including
funeral firm’s costs but excluding
non-discretionary disbursements in
London is £2377, some £534 (29%)
higher than the lowest of £1843 in the
eastern region of the UK.
For a burial in London the average cost
is £3,413, almost twice the level it is in
Northern Ireland (£1,743) which is the
region reporting the lowest costs for a
burial. Including disbursements, the
average cost of a cremation in London
now exceeds £5,000.
Other key findings of the study:-
• the average cost of disbursements
in 2014, for cremations, was £961
and £1,259 for burials;
• the average cost of one limousine is
£179;
Disbursements have increased
Increase in crematorium charges
25.4%
Q1. How have funeral costs changed over the last 5 years? Number of responses = 134
Results show proportion of funeral directors who responded who made reference to each point.
Q1. How have funeral costs changed over the last 5 years? Number of responses = 134
Results show proportion of funeral directors who responded who made reference to each point.
38.8%
SAID NAFD CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, ALAN SLATER:
“This research helps to underpin our work to represent the profession in
Parliament and with the media, providing evidence of key trends such as the
huge fee increases by Local Authorities that are outside the control of funeral
firms and the impact of increased consumer awareness and choice on the cost
of a funeral. I would like to thank all our members that took the time to take part.
Your feedback will be of real use to the Association in securing fairer outcomes
for the profession and for bereaved families.”
”
Average cost of coffin in 2014
AVERAGE COST OF COFFIN IN 2014
All Region
900
793
800
700
600
500
462
455
418
436 424
378
405
400
322 336
346
308
300
200
100
0
Average cost [£]
• the average cost of the most
commonly selected coffin is £418
although, in Northern Ireland,
bereaved families are choosing
markedly more expensive coffins
than the national average
19
Q7. In 2014, what is the cost of your most commonly selected coffin?
Q7. Number In 2014, of responses what = is 134 the cost of your most commonly selected coffin? Number of responses = 134
NB: Answers should should be based be on based the average on costs the average in 2014 and costs reflect what in 2014 the customer and reflect pays for an what at-need the customer pays for an at-need funeral
(rather funeral (rather than than trade prices).
19

ABOLITION OF
THE COUNTERPART
DRIVING LICENCE
From 8 June 2015, the paper counterpart to the photocard
driving licence will not be valid and will no longer be issued by
the Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
date, if you commit an offence you will
still have to pay any applicable fine and
submit your licence to the court but the
way the court deals with the paperwork
will change:-
If you already
hold a paper
counterpart, after
8 June 2015 it
will no longer
have any legal
status. You should
destroy your
paper counterpart
after this date but
you still need to
keep your current
photocard driving
licence
The decision to abolish the counterpart
was as a result of the Government’s
Red Tape Challenge consultation on
road transportation.
The counterpart was originally
introduced to display driving licence
details that could not be included on the
photocard. These details include some
vehicle category entitlements and any
endorsement/penalty points.
If you already hold a paper counterpart,
after 8 June 2015 it will no longer have
any legal status. You should destroy
your paper counterpart after this date
but you still need to keep your current
photocard driving licence.
Paper driving licences issued before
the photocard was introduced (in 1998)
will remain valid and should not be
destroyed.
In the future, if you need to update your
name, address or renew your licence
you will be issued with a photocard only.
From 8 June 2015 new penalty points
(endorsements) will only be recorded
electronically, and will not be printed
or written on either photocard licences
or paper driving licences. From this
• for photocard licences, the court will
retain the paper counterpart and only
return the photocard;
• for paper licences, the court will
return it but it will not have written or
printed the offence details on it.
This means that, from 8 June
2015, neither the photocard driving
licence nor the paper licence will
provide an accurate account of any
driving endorsements. Instead, this
information will be held on DVLA’s
driver record and can be checked
online, by phone or post.
CHECK YOUR LICENCE ONLINE
The DVLA’s new, free ‘View Driving
Licence’ service lets individuals see
what details are on their licence,
including vehicle category entitlements
and any penalty points.
Visit https://www.gov.uk/view-drivinglicence
to check your licence.
CHECK THE LICENCE OF AN
EMPLOYEE OR CUSTOMER
A second service entitled ‘Share Driving
Licence’ will be available before the
counterpart is abolished which enables
employers to check the driving licence
of an employee for entitlements or
penalty points. This service will also
allow drivers to download a summary
of their licence record which can
be printed or shared. Alternatively,
licence holders can call DVLA and give
permission for their driving record to
be checked verbally by a nominated
person/organisation.
Please note, these changes do not
affect photocard licences issued by
DVA in Northern Ireland.
20

The
London Casket Company
Don't forget to come and see us
at NFE. There are treats for all!
Unit 1, Lyndon Yard, Riverside Road, Toon, London SW17 0BA
Telephone 020 8944 0103
www.caskets.co.uk
You have lots of things to get right first time...
Leave us to manage your donations
The appropriate online donations management service that
provides the sensitivity, security and accuracy that you require
for your clients. Used by leading funeral firms throughout the
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Visit us at the NFE and meet some of the team - alternatively
give us a call to learn more and let us seamlessly integrate into
your existing website.
A PROVEN, FREE DONATIONS MANAGEMENT SERVICE
CREATED FOR FUNERAL DIRECTORS BY FUNERAL DIRECTORS
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21

Please visit us at
NFE 2015
Stand 460 in Hall 2
Stoneleigh Park
Nr Coventry
CV8 2LZ
12th - 14th June
For exceptional Funeral Director Supplies, please call 01440 761 404
www.bradnamjoinery.co.uk
22

ART
EXHIBITION
TO OPEN AT BIRMINGHAM’S COFFIN WORKS

With support from the Arts Council of
England, W H Painter and the NAFD,
Birmingham-based artists Transient-Art
have created an innovative exhibition, entitled
GAME OVER, exploring the Coffin Works’
site, formerly the Newman Brothers coffin
workshop. The works of art will explore the
Coffin Works’ history, its employees, goods,
services and subject matter.
Jon Wilkes of Transient Art, said: “Death
holds a certain fascination. It is beautiful and
tragic, sometimes horrific. It can be a real life
experience, something viewed and edited on
a breaking newscast or experienced in our
interaction with games which, thankfully,
only leads to our theorised demise. It exists
in our imagination and in our very bones and,
to contemplate it and its inevitability, is to
consider our own place in this world.”
GA
On Saturday 16 May, as part of the Europewide
Museums at Night event, there will also
be a special event where the artists involved
will be making artwork that will be placed
throughout the museum.
In addition, fashion students from
Birmingham Metropolitan College will
hold a fashion catwalk in the Museum’s
courtyard, displaying garments inspired by
the Museum and its subject matter. W H
Painter is also supplying a hearse, which will
provide a backdrop to the show.

MEOVER
THE EXHIBITION
WILL RUN AT
COFFIN WORKS
FROM 01 MAY
UNTIL 24 JULY 2015
IN THE MUSEUM’S
GALLERY.

MY LIFE
IN A DAY
JAMES NORRIS, FOUNDER, DEADSOCIAL
Do you remember the 2007 advert,
released four years after the death
of comedian Bob Monkhouse, that
appeared to show him speaking
from the afterlife about the prostate
cancer that killed him? London-based
entrepreneur James Norris does.
26
Indeed, he cites it as the primary
inspiration for his social enterprise,
DeadSocial, which provides a range of
free tools to help people manage their
digital legacy – what happens to their
social networking accounts active after
they die.
Although affected by the early passing
of his own father and someone who had
been planning the songs that should be
played at his own funeral since he was a
teen, it was seeing how Bob Monkhouse
had created a very powerful message
about the disease that led to his death
- to be released some years later - that
crystalised James’ passion for bringing
his skills in digital and social media to
end-of-life planning.
“I thought, if a celebrity can do it then
why not the rest of us?” says James.
“After all, we are all like mini celebrities
within our social media spears. In
these environments we have friends,
followers and influence on those who
engage with what we have to say.
“We are spending more and more of
our life online. Therefore it has become
logical that, when we die, our digital
footprint and the services we use are
addressed in the way we would like.”
The media often highlights the final
tweet or Facebook post after someone’s
passing. These are often regular dayto-day
posts rather than a conscious
summing-up of their life and feelings
about those that are important to them.
With that in mind, in 2013 James
created DeadSocial, launching it
at South by Southwest ® (SXSW ® )
Conference & Festival in Austin, Texas.
SXSW ® covers the latest developments
in original music, independent films,
and emerging technologies.
We are interested
in creating useful
content and tools
to help people
prepare for death
in today’s digital
world
“DeadSocial is a social enterprise. We
are interested in creating useful content
and tools to help people prepare for
death in today’s digital world,” says
James.
Free to use, DeadSocial combines
useful tips as to how to navigate
the plethora of rules and processes
set up by different social networks,
websites and device manufacturers
when someone dies. In essence, it
helps people to write a ‘social media
will’ and bring their digital lives to a
managed ending. The website offers a
range of tutorials and a ‘goodbye tool’
that enables users to write or record
messages that will be distributed on
their social media newsfeeds after their
death. The user simply selects a digital
executor who notifies DeadSocial
when the time comes. This starts the
message distribution process and the
confidential messages are released.

“There are often many things left
unsaid,” adds James. “Our tool enables
final goodbyes to be said and stories
to be shared. The messages created
are saved on our server. It is the
responsibility of each user’s assigned
‘digital executor’ to administrate the
deceased’s messages when they are
ready to do so. They are then sent out
overtime and on the specific dates
assigned by the deceased and in
accordance with the deceased wishes.”
A technology marketer by trade, James
launched DeadSocial a couple of years
ago whilst he was still working full time.
He still takes on paying projects for the
likes of Canon, Channel 4 and Camden
Council, allowing him to continue
building the DeadSocial service and
offer it for free However, although
still working on commercial projects,
James’ time is increasingly dominated
by DeadSocial and he has recruited a
like-minded team to help him further
expand the site as, his days and weeks
are often spent travelling across the
UK and Europe, speaking about digital
legacy issues.
“DeadSocial is a social enterprise. We
are interested in creating useful content
and tools to help people prepare for
death in today’s digital world.”
As part of this commitment to offering
free, practical support, DeadSocial
also offers useful and highly practical
tutorials, including a whole section
relating to funerals. One tutorial shows
how a PowerPoint slide show of images
can be easily transformed into a video to
be shown at the funeral. Another shows
how a bereaved relative can correctly
locate a lost loved one’s favourite tracks
on iTunes. “My mum wouldn’t know
where to start if I died,” says James.”
“She knows I liked Guns and Roses as
a child and went through an Eminem
phase, but playing those songs at my
funeral wouldn’t reflect who I am now.”
When he spoke to Funeral Director
Monthly James was embroiled in
launching the first annual Digital Legacy
Conference. The event will take place
at UCL Partners in London and will
feature as a Dying Matters Awareness
week event. He was simultaneously
calling potential speakers and releasing
information via the DeadSocial website
news section.
James has appeared on numerous
television and radio programmes
talking about DeadSocial, digital legacy
and end-of-life issues in general. He
is a regular conference speaker and is
fast becoming an expert witness for the
media and the end-of-life sector on the
growing importance of what happens
to an individual’s online presence after
their death.
Although DeadSocial has users from
right across the age spectrum, James
says that the website - and the events
organised around it - appear to be of
particular interest to thirty somethings.
This is particularly interesting for the
funeral profession, given the historic
reluctance of younger age groups to
engage with more traditional end-oflife
planning.
As well as running DeadSocial and
maintaining his day job, James’ side
projects include the Adopt-a-Grave
scheme piloted with the Friends of
Brompton Cemetery. Its goal is to
encourage people to care for old,
untended graves and to see cemeteries
as peaceful green spaces that are worth
spending time in, particularly for city
dwellers who might not have access to
their own garden or outside space.
Here’s what the media has to say
about DeadSocial:-
“Social Networking Site Helps You
Contact Friends and Family From
Beyond the Grave” (Huffington Post)
"Tell them, finally, how you really
feel" (CNBC)
“So, whether you want to leave a
humorous ‘I told you I was ill…’
status update, a poignant farewell,
or feed your social media addiction
long after you’re belly-up in the
ground, DeadSocial could be the
answer to your prayers”. (The Next
Web).
"Set up tweets or Facebook posts to
be released at specific times after
their death, perhaps on a particular
anniversary, or after a fixed period"
(Wall Street Journal)
"DeadSocial, part of the UKTI digital
mission to SXSW ® , enables you to
carry on your social footprint from
the grave". Dot Net Magazine
Find out more about James’
work at www.deadsocial.org and
www.DigitalLegacyConference.com
27

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28

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29

THE
URBAN
DEATH
PROJECT:
GROWING
NEW LIFE
FROM
DEATH
GIVEN THE HEADLINES OVER THE
LAST FEW MONTHS ABOUT LACK OF
BURIAL SPACE, CEMETERIES BEING
FULL UP AND THE CARBON COST
OF CREMATIONS, IT’S CLEAR THAT
RADICAL SOLUTIONS ARE GOING TO
BE NEEDED. NOW ONE INNOVATIVE
AND ENVIRONMENTALLY NEW
PROJECT IN THE UNITED STATES
IS PROPOSING A SOLUTION IN THE
FORM OF HUMAN COMPOSTING.

Katrina Spade, a designer based in
Seattle, wants to open three-storey
human composting buildings in urban
areas suffering from a lack of burial
space and for those more ethically
minded who wish a greener end to a
loved one’s life than cremation.
The idea is simple. After death, bodies
would be stored in refrigerators for up
to 10 days before a ceremony, and would
involve loved ones carrying the body
to the top of the facility where it would
be mixed with high carbon materials -
including woodchips and sawdust - and
begin the composting process.
After a few months, with the help of
aerobic decomposition and microbial
activity, the body would be fully
composted. Families could then return,
collect the composted remains and plant
them under a tree or bush, allowing
the plant to grow and flourish off the
nutrients.
The Urban Death Project began a
fundraising exercise at the end of March
to help realise the project’s vision.
As Katrina puts it: “The Urban Death
Project is not simply a system for turning
our bodies into soil-building material.
It is also a space for the contemplation
of our place in the natural world, and a
ritual to help us say goodbye to our loved
ones by connecting us with the cycles of
nature.”
This more natural way of disposing of
bodies could appeal to some people that
may be put off by the idea of burning the
body or having it decompose in a coffin.
And for those who are environmentallyminded,
it has the added benefit of being
carbon neutral too.
There are, of course, lots of ways our
bodies can be of use after we die -
medical science and organ donation to
name but two - and there is certainly
a move towards the greener funerals
where bodies are buried in woodland
in biodegradable coffins, which is
more environmentally friendly and a
lot cheaper than the traditional burial.
This would appear to take that one step
further.
On a more practical level, the rising
crisis of burial space needs addressing.
Pressure is growing as local authorities
struggle to cope with demand and are
faced with full up cemeteries. Two
London boroughs, Tower Hamlets and
Hackney, have already pulled down
the shutters and will not provide burial
space, forcing people to opt for cremation
or seek an alternative borough.
A survey carried out in 2013 on a
subject on which the NAFD is actively
campaigning suggested that nearly half
of England’s cemeteries could be full in
the next 20 years.
Authorities in the UK are looking to
Europe and further afield to see how
their counterparts cope.
Human composting in this way isn’t the
only eco-friendly way of saying goodbye
to a loved one. Members may well
be aware that, in Sweden, a company
called Promessa also composts human
remains, but only after they have been
freeze-dried and broken down into a fine
white powder.
The process, called promession, takes
between 6 – 12 months to transform a
dead body into high-nutrient compost.
The corpse is first frozen to -18°C (0°F)
and then submerged in liquid nitrogen.
Then the frozen, brittle corpse is gently
bombarded with sound waves which
break it down into a fine white powder.
That powder is then sent through a
vacuum chamber that evaporates all the
water, leaving a small amount of powder.
When it does come time for a burial,
the powder can be placed in a box of
biodegradable material and buried,
creating a nutrient-rich environment for
the soil.
“It is also a
space for the
contemplation of
our place in the
natural world,
and a ritual
to help us say
goodbye to our
loved ones”
Other methods include resomation,
which speeds up the decomposition
process and swiftly reduces a corpse to
bone ash in three hours by exposing it
to a mixture of hot water and potassium
hydroxide, and which is seen as a
far more eco-friendly alternative to
cremation and burial. Dubbed the “green
cremation” and previously the reserve of
a few States in America, the Netherlands
and Belgium are both considering
becoming the first European countries to
legalise the system.
In neighbouring Germany, the idea
has received short thrift from funeral
directors. Oliver Wirthmann, general
manager of the Board of German
Funerary Culture in Düsseldorf, said:
“The chemical dissolution of a dead
body is not desirable from a moral,
religious or grief-psychology point of
view. Mourning needs a place, and the
chemical dissolution of the deceased
does not offer that place.”
Environmental experts have also
expressed doubts. Gatze Lettinga,
professor emeritus for environmental
technology at Wageningen University,
said: “Resomation is a method that is
environmentally unfriendly. It uses a
lot of energy, requires very aggressive
chemicals, and leaves extremely dirty,
alkaline wastewater."
For years, saving the environment
has been in the gift of the living. Now,
increasingly, people can choose to
ensure that their death has a positive
environmental impact too.
31

BECAUSE WE BELIEVE IN
LIFE AFTER WORK
If you work for an NAFD member company, you’re
entitled to substantial discounts on all new Volvo cars,
thanks to our affinity partnership with the Association.
Which means, for example, you could save around
£4000 on a brand new V40 D2 R-Design and receive
3 years’ complementary servicing when you finance on
a Personal Contract Purchase with Volvo Car Credit.*
With its sleek Swedish curves, sporty R-Design looks
and cutting edge Volvo safety technology, the V40
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37
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AROUND
THE REGIONS
YORKSHIRE EDUCATION AND SOCIAL WEEKEND 2015
Friday 20 April saw the
occurrence of a solar eclipse, a
rare phenomenon that happens
only a few times in our lives.
The same day saw another
excellent start to the Yorkshire
Educational and Social
Weekend (YESW), another
phenomenon that, thankfully,
occurs annually. The seaside
town of Scarborough saw this
great event held at The Palm
Court Hotel on the weekend of
20-22 March.
The event was very well supported by
both Yorkshire funeral directors as
well as others from various parts of
the UK. The event was organised by
the weekend committee (comprised of
Alastair Huteson, Alison Turnbull and
Clive Kirk) and consisted of several
social gatherings and three educational
seminars.
The first social event took place on
the Friday with an evening meal and
entertainment until late.
On the Saturday, the weekend was
officially opened by NAFD Chief
Executive Officer Alan Slater, who gave
a warm welcome to delegates, a brief
insight into the current progress of the
NAFD and welcomed all to attend the
National Funeral Exhibition in June.
He finished by giving thanks to the
exhibitors that had supported YESW for
the 2015 event.
the war period as well as discussing
the use of mass burials. It was a very
interesting session that was enjoyed by
all who attended, and was closed with a
question and answer segment with Dr
Parsons.
The second educational seminar
was given by Dr Trevor Jarvis of the
Alzheimer’s Society. Dr Jarvis is a
‘Dementia Friend Champion’ and
suffers from vascular dementia
himself. He gave a very detailed account
of Alzheimer’s from the sufferer’s point
of view and discussed how he and his
family have had to change their lives
since being diagnosed with the disease.
Delegates then had time to relax before
the formal evening meal. Entertainment
was provided by a two piece band that
played into the night.
The third educational seminar was on
Sunday Morning and was given by Mark
Vesey of the Maritime Heritage Centre
in Scarborough. The session followed
on from Dr Parsons’ seminar the
previous day as Mr Vesey spoke about
the bombardment of Scarborough in
December 1914 when German battle
cruisers fired 500 shells onto the town.
He spoke of the devastation and effect
that this had on Scarborough, as well
as the national coverage that followed
in the wake of the event giving rise to
the slogan Remember Scarborough.
Mr Vesey also spoke of the work and
commitment that went into opening the
Heritage Centre and gave a brief outline
of its purpose.
The weekend closed with the organising
committee giving thanks to all the
sponsors and exhibitors and stressing
how important their support was in
allowing the success of the weekend.
Thanks were also given to all the
delegates who attended the weekend
and donated generously to the charity
raffle and auction the previous evening,
which resulted in a total collection
of £1,000 raised for The Alzheimer’s
Society.
Through the pages of Funeral Director
Monthly, the organising committee
would like to thank everyone who
supported the event, with a special
thank you to the following exhibitors for
their sponsorship and support:-
• Perfect Choice Funeral Plans
• The Dodge Company Ltd
• JC Atkinson & Son Ltd
• Lyn Oakes Ltd
• Wilcox & Co (Limousines) Ltd
• SEIB Insurance Brokers
• Ecclesiastical Insurance
• National Association of
Funeral Directors
• Steve Soult Ltd
The first educational seminar was
by Dr Brian Parsons, whose tutorial
was entitled War and Peace. He gave
a full in-depth account of the effect
of the First World War on the funeral
industry, giving the facts on how
funeral directors were affected during
Alastair Huteson, Alison Waite, Alan Slater, Dr. Brian Parsons, Clive Kirk
33

MEMBERS'
NEWS
NEW MANAGER AT DOUCH FAMILY FUNERAL DIRECTORS GROUP
Michael Wilton has been appointed
Manager of AE Jolliffe & Son of
Ferndown in Dorset, part of the Douch
Family Funeral Directors Group.
The 29-year-old has been in the industry
since he was 14, when he began working
at his family business in Tuckton, the
Brian Wilton Funeral Home.
After his family’s business was sold
Michael stayed on for a time but
decided that he preferred working in a
family firm.
The Douch and Wilton families have
known each other for generations and
he was a perfect fit to take on the longestablished
business in Ferndown.
Michael said: “After leaving my family
business I really wanted to work in
a similar environment because the
ethos is one I had been brought up
with. Having known the Douch family
for many years I was aware of the
fantastic service they offer and the
great reputation they have. AE Jolliffe
& Son is a very well-known business
in Ferndown – everybody knows us
- and managing the branch is a great
responsibility, but something I am very
much enjoying.”
Nick Douch, Managing Director of
Douch Family Funeral Directors, said:
“We are delighted to have recruited
Michael to manage AE Jolliffe & Son.
Our families have known each other
for a long time and, having worked for
a family company, Michael knows what
is required in terms of service and
attention to detail. He has fitted straight
in to the role and, along with the other
staff members, will strengthen our
reputation.”
Michael Wilton, the new manager
of AE Jolliffe & Son in Ferndown
SHIRES BRIGHTENS UP THE STREETS OF BALDOCK
RAISING AWARENESS FOR MARIE CURIE CANCER CARE
Shires, one of the leading funeral
directors in Baldock, has created an
eye-catching window display, filled
with yellow Daffodils, to help raise
awareness of the Marie Curie Cancer
Care charity.
A member of the Marie Curie support
network recently approached the
Shires team and asked them to feature
a spring-themed window display to
showcase the charity and its works.
Marie Curie is known for offering
support to a whole host of people
who are living with a terminal illness.
Veronika Marsh, one of the colleagues
at Shires Funeral Directors, created
the floral display of hanging Daffodils,
which are an iconic symbol for the
charity.
The bold display epitomises springtime
and has been used to raise awareness
of the charity and to encourage visitors
and passers-by to stop and take a look
and leave a donation if they so wish.
Bill Scott, principal funeral director of
Shires Funeral Directors, comments:
“We are committed to supporting a
range of charity partners and Veronika
has done a fantastic job with the display
at our Baldock branch. It has generated
so much interest and we would like to
take this opportunity to thank the local
community for their kind donations.”
The Daffodil display for
Marie Curie Cancer Care
34

International Patents Pending

36

A W LYMN FAMILY FUNERAL SERVICE APPOINTS
ADVERTISING, MARKETING, BRAND & PR MANAGER
- ROB LIPPITT
Rob Lippitt was recently appointed as
Advertising, Marketing, Brand & PR
Manager for A W Lymn – The Family
Funeral Service.
Rob joined A W Lymn in 2010 as a
bearer/driver, studied for the NAFD
Diploma in Funeral Directing and
qualified as a funeral director in 2013.
Before joining A W Lymn in November
2010, Rob gained extensive commercial
and marketing experience in the travel
sector, including seventeen years
working for the airline BMI, where
his final role was International Sales
& Marketing Manager for markets
worldwide.
Rob commented: ”I strongly believe the
funeral profession has a key role to play
in liaising with community groups, local
groups and local education to increase
awareness and understanding of what,
to many, may still be seen as a ’taboo’
subject. To talk about the inevitable
does not speed its arrival, but can
put minds at rest and reduce fears or
anxieties.”
Rob is looking forward to heading up the
marketing, advertising, brand and PR
for the A W Lymn group of companies.
Director of A W Lymn, Matthew Lymn
Rose, said: “We welcome Rob to his
new role and are confident that he will
put his marketing background to good
use.”
Rob Lippitt alongside a vintage Rolls-Royce
Phantom II, part of A W Lymn’s extensive fleet of
Rolls-Royce and Bentley limousines
EGGSTRA SUPPORT FOR VALE FOODBANK
As part of their continued support
for the local community, Lyndsay and
Nicki Ellis of the Vale Funeral Service
in Barry, Vale of Glamorgan, recently
organised an Easter Egg appeal in aid
of Vale Foodbank, which provides free
emergency food parcels for local people
experiencing a temporary financial
crisis.
They were thrilled with the response
from local people. Lyndsay explained:
“As usual the community has done us
proud, with 215 eggs being donated. I
am overwhelmed.”
Nicki added: “The community never
fail to support us during our community
involvement.”
Vale Funeral Services Easter Egg Appeal
Representing Limbo products throughout the UK
enquiries@securehaven.co.uk
www.securehaven.co.uk 01277 353776
SH/FDMMay15.indd 1 14/04/2015 12:26
37

IT’S ‘FROZEN’ IN SPRING FOR
CUTLER’S FUNERAL SERVICES
A sprinkling of magic settled on Kingstanding recently as
Disney’s Princess Elsa and the Easter bunny paid a visit to St
Luke's Church in the town.
The parish Grand Easter Egg Hunt was organised by Father
Barry Smart (Parish Priest of St Luke's) and Edward
Farnan from Cutler's Funeral Directors on College Road,
Kingstanding, which sponsored the event.
Elsa's beautiful white Princess carriage sparkled with lights
as it was led through Kingstanding by two beautiful white
horses, resplendent in pink plumage. Inside the carriage,
Elsa, the Easter Bunny, and her two helpers, mini Anna and
mini Elsa (Millie Wright, aged 5, and Isobel Horobin, aged 3)
waved at passers-by, handing out Easter eggs and chocolate
bars.
They arrived at St Luke's to a crowd of hundreds that had
come along to meet Elsa and take part in the annual event.
While parishioners provided refreshments for the crowds,
children took turns to meet Elsa and the Easter Bunny and
have their photographs taken with them inside the carriage.
Edward Farnan said: "At Cutlers, we are very communityoriented.
We like to do as much as we can to support local
events, and spread some happiness in the local area."
Cutlers also provided eggs for the children and those of
Christ the King Parish. Added Edward: “We would like to
thank Father Barry Smart, Father Darren Smith and Father
Patrick Gillon for supporting the event. Also to Elaine and
Neil from Horsedrawn Occasions for their professionalism
and time given.”
The most
innovativE
funeral app
The Devall & Son Family Funeral
Directors has reached more potential
new customers with our app.
Find out how you can too.
info@appitized.com
Cutlers Frozen Easter Bunny
38

See us at
the NFE - Hall 1
Stand number 115
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39

IT’S
SHOWTIME
AGAIN!
BY DAVID HYDE OF LEISURE EXPO LTD, ORGANISER NATIONAL FUNERAL EXHIBITION
The last two years have flown by and we
are fast approaching the fifth National
Funeral Exhibition (NFE).
We’ve been working with the NAFD for
over ten years to build NFE into one
of the top exhibitions of its kind in the
world, and each show increases in size
and visitor attendance.
The sheer variety of products and
services is what really makes NFE stand
out. Every aisle is full of innovations to
help you in your business, combined
with features and entertainment to
make your visit fun and exciting.
Once again, you’ll be seeing new
companies to the industry in our
introductions areas. The take-up on
these stands is even greater than for the
2013 show, and we really recommend
that you pay a special visit to meet
companies that have never been seen
at any funeral event before.
Of course, many - if not all - of your
favourite suppliers will be on-hand
helping you to plan for future orders
and show you the latest additions to
their range.
You’re really going to need at least a full
day to see everything, so set off early.
Maybe you’d like to stay over for the
night. There are many reasonably priced
hotels in the area and we are providing
some after hours entertainment
straight after the show on Saturday. The
Society Jazz Band will be performing in
Strollers restaurant from 5pm to 8pm
and it’s a great chance to wind down
after your visit and chat with friends
and colleagues.
Sunday is, as ever, family day, and
we welcome all visitors with young
children to bring them along. There
will be plenty of entertainment for the
whole family with a special gift for every
‘Prince’ and ‘Princess’. The theme this
year is ‘Medieval England’, and we are
even providing NFE’s very own castle.
In this issue there’s a loose card insert
with a reminder about registering.
Whilst this has been covered in previous
articles, it’s worth mentioning again.
Our new online system is fast and
efficient, but you do need to register
- even if you visited in 2013. You can,
of course, register on the day, but pre
registering gets you into the show the
quickest way possible.
The next issue of Funeral Director
Monthly will contain your show catalogue
and lots more information about
special features and seminars but, in
the meantime, you can visit our website
www.nationalfuneralexhibition.co.uk
or phone us on +44(0)1926 815597.
See you all in June.
40

EXHIBITORS AT THE NATIONAL FUNERAL EXHIBITION 2015
Against Breast Cancer
Albins
Alki Sargfabrik Lothar
Hassel Gmbh
Allsops Ctf Ltd
Almns Limited
Ankamco
Appcc
Appitized
Arrow Bronze
Ashdown Supplies
Association Of Green
Funeral Directors
Ati Environment Uk Ltd
J C Atkinson & Sons Ltd
Auden Funeral Supplies Ltd
Avalon Trustee Company
Bailey & Bailey
Batesville Caskets
Bereavement Advice Centre
Bradnam Joinery
Braemar Finance
Bridge Insurance Brokers Ltd
British Humanist Association
British Institute Of
Funeral Directors
Brook York (Menswear) Ltd
Brosch Direct
Certainty
Chemsol Limited
Child Funeral Charity
Chiltern Woodland Burial Park
China Valued Show Mgement Llc
Church Funerals
The Church Of England
Citation Limited
Civil Ceremonies Ltd
Clarke And Strong
Cloudberry Funeral
Management Solutions
The Co-Operative Funeralcare
Coleman Milne
Colney Woodland Burial Park
Colourful Coffins
Coulson's
Cruse
The Debt Recovery Bureau Llp
Dodge Company Ltd
Duffy Coachbodies Dundalk Ltd
Dunrich Ltd
Ecoffins
Emcom Software Services
English Pewter Company
Engravamet
Epping Forest Woodland
Burial Park
Esposti Ltd
Eternal Memorial
Eulogica Ltd
Eversculpt Ltd
Evolution Fms
Falon Nameplates Ltd
Fellowship Of Professional
Celebrants
Ferno (Uk) Ltd
Fiat / Ifta
Flexmort Limited
Fotoceramic
Friends And Relations Ltd
Frigid Fluid Company
Ftp Ecocoffins Ltd
Funeral Director Monthly
Magazine
Funeral Furnishing
Manufacturers’ Association
Funeral Planning Services Ltd
Funeral Products Bv
Funeral Service Journal
Funeral Service Times
Funeralmap.co.uk
Funeralzone
Gadsby Basketware
Gateway Publishing
Golden Charter
Golden Leaves Funeral Plans
Graphic Services
Gravograph
Green Fuse
Greenacres Groups Ltd
Greenfield Creations
Grief Recovery (Uk) Ltd
Haddonstone Memorials
Hans Riebel Gmbh
Heart In Diamond
Heaven Address
Tim Holloway Funeral
Support Ltd
Homeland International
Hydrosystem
Hygeco Lear
Igene London Ltd
Innolite Ltd
Inspired Goodbyes
Institute Of Civil Funerals
Leec Ltd
Lemon Business Solutions Ltd
Lifeart International Pty Ltd
London Casket Co Ltd
Love2donate: In Memory
Loved Forever
Mcgowan Funeral Supplies
Mac Neice
Macmillan Cancer Support
Marshall
Mears Repatriation
Meminis
Memory Giving
Memory Treasures
Mortuary Solutions
Motorcycle Funerals Ltd
Much Loved Charitable Trust
My News Ltd
N.y. Imports Exports
National Association Of Funeral
Directors
National Association Of Funeral
Directors - Education
National Funeral Directors’
Association
Natural Woven Products
“
THE SHEER
VARIETY OF
PRODUCTS
AND
SERVICES
IS WHAT
REALLY
MAKES NFE
STAND OUT
”
Naturally Useful
Ningbo Irene Industrial Co Ltd
Lyn Oakes Ltd
Odlings Mcr Ltd
Omega Supplies Ltd
Open Prepaid Funeral Plans
Orthometals Bv
Passages International Inc. Ltd
Perfect Choice Funeral Plans
Phoenix-Diamonds.com
Phoenix Marble And Granite Ltd
Pludra-Frankfurt Gmbh
Pubblipel Ricciarelli Snc
Rapid Data Gmbh
Kprayner Ltd
Redwood Collections
Remember Me
Rnli
Rose House Group
Rosemark Publishing Ltd
Rowland Brothers International
Ruventa
Secure Haven
Serenity Urns
Shaw's Funeral Products
Sheals And Son
Shengtai Europe Srl
Shipping Ashes
Sigmund Produktdesign Gmbh
Society Of Allied & Independent
Funeral Directors
Somerset Willow Co Ltd
Sos Supplies
Steve Soult Ltd
South Essex Insurance
Brokers Ltd
Southgate International -
Earth To Heaven
Starmark Funeral Products
Strongarm Ltd
Superior Uk Automotive Limited
Tanexpo
Terrybear Urns & Memorials
Towergate Insurance
Tudor Crystal
A R Twigg & Son
Unique Art Urns
Urns Uk
Vdzb E.v.
Vhp Gmbh
Vahle Trauerwaren Georg Vahle
E.kfm.
Vintage Hearse Company
Vivedia Ltd
Volvo
Walwyn & Sons
Waterurn Bv
Wealden Coffins
Wesley Media
Whittaker Office Solutions
Wilcox & Co (Limousines) Ltd
Wilkes Partnership
Zep Uk Ltd
41

WILCOX
LIMOUSINES
Wilcox Limousines is the only remaining
family funeral coachbuilder left in
Britain. Established in 1945 by Bill
Wilcox and now run by third generation
family members, the company will
be exhibiting a wide variety of funeral
vehicles at the show.
AUDEN FUNERAL SUPPLIES
Auden Funeral Supplies returns to the NFE in 2015 to showcase its extensive range
of funeral equipment and accessories.
The MD product range with its multidirectional wheel has been a massive success
over the last two years and sales of trolleys and stretchers fitted with the wheel
have been a real hit with the funeral industry. The MD wheel allows the trolley to
move in any direction with ease.
Visit the stand to see new products fitted with this innovation and demo this
fantastic product on a number of Auden’s British Made products.
It may be also be the first time you have had chance to look at the extensive range
of bariatric handling products, which includes the HD range of trolleys and biers
with higher weight limits and extendable sides. The collection is still lightweight
and great for everyday use but is on hand for those more difficult situations should
they arise.
With new products for 2015 being added to the largest selection of British made
stretchers and trolleys, the Auden team will be on hand to welcome old and
new customers and demonstrate its comprehensive range of UK designed and
engineered products. Don’t forget that all the products carry the Auden three-year
guarantee and are all backed up by its on-site or back to base service department.
It’s a great time to look at upgrading your old equipment so make sure you pay
Audens visit at Stand 390 in Hall 2.
Auden Funeral Supplies Ltd can be contacted on 01924 402080
info@audenfs.co.uk www.audenfs.co.uk
Says Paul Wilcox: “Unlike any other
funeral vehicle in the UK, all of our
Jaguars are hand designed and built
right here in Great Britain by expert
craftsmen.
“Did you know we carry the largest
selection of new and used funeral
vehicles in Europe? Current models
include Jaguar, Daimler, Volvo,
Vauxhall, Ford, Mercedes, Saab, Ford
and more. Wilcox Limousines is the
only coachbuilder able to offer such a
wide range of stunning choices.
“We will have a New Aluminium Jaguar
hearse and limousine for viewing, plus
the much anticipated Traditional Volvo
hearse that is just completing its first
conversions.
“I look forward to meeting you all
personally at NFE 2015. You can also
chat to one of our team waiting inside
or outside the Hall about how we can
help with your fleet requirements.
“Remember – a funeral director’s fleet
is his shop window!”
You can find Wilcox on stand 285 in Hall 2
ALLSOPS
Garry Allsop, Managing Director of
Allsops Funeral Supplies says: “We are
really looking forward to this exhibition,
and the chance to chat and catch up
with customers new and old.
“We’ve got plenty of new and interesting
products to show you – new scatter tube
designs, trestle carry bags, heart keepsake,
coffin linings and coverings and more.
“We look forward to seeing you on stand
280 in main hall 2 (through the doors
and to the right).”
THE LONDON CASKET CO LTD
The London Casket Co Ltd is very pleased to be back at the National Funeral
Exhibition for 2015 and is very much looking forward to meeting new visitors as
well as catching up with ‘old friends’.
On its stand this year, the company will be delighted to welcome sister company
VAUGHAN MEMORIALS. Jayne will be on the stand to meet, greet and introduce
the company’s full range and services and answer any questions.
As for the London Casket Co Ltd,.....it will be displaying a selection of its casket
range with Stuart, Martin and Derek on hand to look after visitors.
They will also be displaying the beautiful ‘Pharaoh Sarcophagus’ again this year.
One of only two available, it has a total weight of 500kg and is made from pure
forged bronze ..... definitely not one for the shoulders!
So, with a free daily raffle draw and a very special free raffle on the final day, there
will be plenty of reasons to visit The London Casket Coin Hall 2. They look forward
to seeing you there.
42

SEIB
The SEIB stand is located in Hall 1
Stand Number 115 so visit the stand
for a chat. The team will be on hand
to provide expert advice so, whether
you’re an existing client or new to SEIB,
the team will welcome you to the stand.
Visit them to talk about any of your
insurance needs.
As the appointed broker to the NAFD
and with over 40 years’ experience
insuring funeral directors, SEIB really
know your business. SEIB’s bespoke
products are designed for the funeral
industry and the company only
insures funeral directors and ancillary
trades under their Motor Fleet and
Business premises policies. This offers
consistency on both the price and the
bespoke cover it provides.
SEIB also provides the invaluable
professional indemnity cover that is a
key benefit of NAFD membership. Each
member firm enjoys a limit of £5,000,000
for any one claim, and cover is not in the
aggregate like many other providers.
So if it’s your vehicles, business or
even your personal insurance, SEIB
can provide the ultimate service. SEIB
writes all types of insurance and would
be able to assist you for other assets
you may also need to insure.
SEIB looks forward to meeting you at
the National Funeral Exhibition but,
in the interim, if you want to discuss
your cover or talk to SEIB about a
claim please call either Grant White
01708 850014 or Steven English
01708 850019 or visit the website
www.seib.co.uk
JC ATKINSON
On the JC Atkinson stand this year you
will find examples of the company’s
broad range of products including
the Reflections Picture coffins, Italian
coffins, Fair Trade coffins from Oasis
Coffins as well as the Natural Legacy
wool coffins (look out for a surprise on
these!).
Mark Morris, Marketing Manager of
JC Atkinson, says: “We will also be
showcasing our range of superb quality
Daisy Coffins as well as some exceptional
new American caskets in both wood and
metal.
“On our stand this year you will be able
to view a substantial number of products
from our Foreverurns range of urns, ash
caskets and keepsakes including some
examples of our amazing wooden urns
made by award winning wood turner
Phil Irons. We will also be showing some
of the wide range of handles and coffin
fittings that we use on our coffins.
“In our projection area you will be able
to view and design a Reflections Picture
Coffin and see how we put together
our exceptional Picture Coffins for your
families. If you have always wondered
how we do it then now is your chance to
find out!
“If you are looking for a new coffin
supplier or simply want to view some
new and interesting products, be assured
that, on the JC Atkinson stand, you will
receive a warm welcome and we are sure
you will find what you are looking for.”
MUCH LOVED
MuchLoved is the UK registered
charity that has helped to pioneer the
development of in-memory tribute sites
over the last decade.
Says Jonathan Davies, Trustee of
the MuchLoved Charitable Trust:
“MuchLoved has exhibited at the National
Funeral Exhibition since 2007 and
leads the field in terms of ease of use,
customisation and functionality.
“Using our tribute experience,
MuchLoved has developed www.
funeralgiving.org which is a fully branded
platform for funeral directors so that they
can offer clients beautiful online tribute
pages with a simple, integrated funeral
notice and donations facility for efficiently
collecting funeral donations and Gift Aid
to any charity.
“More and more people want to respond
to a death positively and practically by
collecting funeral donations to support
the work of a charity or to thank them for
their help. Family and friends attending
the funeral often want the option to make
their donation online by credit card, debit
card or PayPal, all methods that make
the reclaim of Gift Aid a simple process.
“MuchLoved’s FuneralGiving platform
is a completely customisable service,
creating marketing opportunities and
strengthening relationships in the local
community. A key part of this is the bespoke
‘Tribute Garden’ on your website where
people go in order to view a particular
tribute and to make their donation.
“As a charity, MuchLoved’s online
donation and Gift Aid reclaim service is
just 3.6% inclusive of all credit and debit
card fees, making it a much cheaper
way of collecting donations than other
options,” adds Jonathan.
“In essence, MuchLoved offers you
the simplest, most efficient method of
processing funeral donations whilst, at
the same time, offering clients a truly
special way of sending condolences and
sharing memories.”
Please contact MuchLoved on 01494
722818 or support@muchloved.com or
via www.funeralgiving.org to find out
how they can help your business and
clients.
43

NATURAL WOVEN
PRODUCTS LTD
Natural Woven Products Ltd is a family run business and was founded in 2007. It is
the sister company to the Somerset Willow Company Ltd which has over 50 years’
experience, skill and knowledge within the industry.
PERFECT
CHOICE
Visit the Perfect Choice stand for a
warm welcome and complimentary
drink!
The Perfect Choice team looks forward
to supporting NAFD at this year’s
National Funeral Exhibition. If you are
attending NFE, visit the Perfect Choice
stand to enjoy a complimentary drink
and find out more about the benefits
of offering Perfect Choice plans and
its unique values. You will also have
the chance to enter a number of
exciting competitions to win some
fantastic prizes - you will receive more
information shortly.
The Perfect Choice stand will be located
in hall 1 (stand 90) and is joined to the
NAFD stand.
All of the wicker coffins and caskets in the range have been designed by the
company’s own team in the UK and are lovingly and caringly handcrafted to the
finest quality finish. As a direct supplier of wicker coffins and caskets to the
funeral trade, the company oversees the whole production process, from the
materials used in the manufacture of the coffins right up to the final packaging
before dispatch. Natural Woven Products believes that its natural wicker coffins
are among the best available, made by traditional craftsman to the highest possible
standards, backed by a sound environmental and ethical policy, with levels of
service and aftercare that are unequalled.
As part of the company’s commitment to the business, it is always looking at
new ways to supplement its environmentally friendly product range to provide a
memorable and perfect tribute to a family’s loved one at a time of great need, and
it is with this in mind that it is pleased to announce that, at the National Funeral
Exhibition in June, it will be unveiling a brand new coffin to add to the existing range
of natural material coffins. Natural Woven Products very much looks forward to
meeting customers to discuss any questions they may have about the company’s
products.
In addition to showcasing its products, Natural Woven Products will also be offering
a raffle prize in the way of a fully fitted picnic basket provided by sister company the
Somerset Willow Company. Every customer that visits the stand can be entered
and the lucky winner will be drawn out at the end of the exhibition.
Natural Woven Products looks forward to meeting visitors on stand 270 in Hall 2 at
the National Funeral Exhibition.
You can find out more information about Natural Woven Products’ products and
services by visiting www.naturalwovencoffins.co.uk
Tel: 01278 588011 Fax: 01278 588183 Email: contact@naturalwovenproducts.co.uk
If you would like to make an appointment
to meet one of the Perfect Choice
Business Relationship Managers
at NFE, simply contact the team on
0800 633 5626 or email perfectchoice@
nafds.co.uk.
THE NAFD BELIEVES PERFECT
CHOICE TO BE THE MOST
ROBUST AND PROFESSIONALLY
MANAGED FUNERAL PRE-
PAYMENT PLAN THAT IS
AVAILABLE TO INDEPENDENT
FUNERAL DIRECTORS AND
THEIR FAMILIES.
WE URGE ALL INDEPENDENT
MEMBERS TO TAKE SOME TIME
TO VISIT THE PERFECT CHOICE
STAND TO DISCUSS THE
BENEFITS IN MORE DETAIL.
44

Remain forever in
the minds of those
that matter.
At The Online Book Company we help
to create personalised online books
that offer a unique way to record and
share insights upon life’s greatest
moments and most memorable stories.
To demonstrate the power of our
online books, COME AND JOIN US
IN HALL 1 / STAND 100 so that we
can share with you the official and
amazingly successful Waterloo 200
Anniversary memorial book.
See if we can help you discover any
family members whom may have
taken part in this historic Battle, whilst
learning about how our other clients
have utilised this flexible platform to
strengthen their overall service offer
and to remain forever in the minds
of their customers.
JOIN US
The National Funeral
Exhibition, Stoneleigh
June 12 th / 13 th / 14 th
Hall 1 / Stand 100
—
Search for ancestors
whom may have fought
in the Battle of Waterloo
and be entertained by
our on-stand Magician
Celebrate, Engage
& Remember
Call us on +44 (0)1872 226800
www.theonlinebookcompany.com
45

ROWLAND BROTHERS
INTERNATIONAL
Rowland Brothers International (RBI) repatriation service started in 1971.
Chairman Tony Rowland was asked to set up a repatriation strategy for a popular
tour operator, Intasun, which organised package holidays to Spain. RBI developed,
and has since worked with, numerous holiday companies, insurance and assistance
companies, and international corporations around the world.
As RBI’s worldwide network grew, so did its connections with international
organisations such as insurance and assistance companies, the Foreign and
Commonwealth Office, the Red Cross, Missing Abroad and the Metropolitan Police.
Rowland Brothers International is also proud to provide a free telephone helpline
for funeral directors nationwide, sharing information with fellow members of
the National Association of Funeral Directors and advising on procedures and
regulations and assisting where it can.
You can visit Rowland Brothers International on stand 2 in Hall 1.
HADDONSTONE MEMORIALS
Haddonstone, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of fine garden ornaments and
architectural stonework, has a unique range of Garden Cremation Memorials.
Exceptionally crafted, yet unobtrusive, each design provides both a beautiful
ornament and a discreet receptacle for a loved one’s cremated remains, without the
expense of a traditional memorial.
Each design incorporates a plinth which can accommodate one or two proprietary
Poly-Urns (one supplied with memorial). To personalise each memorial, a stone
inscription panel is recess fixed into the pedestal. This is supplied inclusive of a cut
inscription detailing a first name, surname and years of birth and death.
Haddonstone’s Garden Cremation Memorials are designed to be used as a normal
garden ornament yet, with a subtle inscription added, can provide a tasteful
memorial piece. Standard designs range from memorial sundials, vases and bird
baths to memorial blocks, stones and obelisks. Haddonstone also provides beautiful
memorial pieces for your cherished pet’s remains.
Haddonstone is a unique form of cast limestone with a surface texture similar to
Portland stone, meaning that the material matures and weathers like natural stone.
Each design is hand made by Haddonstone, in Northamptonshire, using moulds
created within the company’s extensive mould shops and studios. Other designs in
the Haddonstone collection range from planters, statues and fountains to pavilions,
temples and fireplaces.
Why not visit Haddonstone on stand 30 to view a selection from its memorial range
and speak to one of its knowledgeable team, or pick up a copy of the latest catalogue.
THE ONLINE
BOOK COMPANY
In 2012, Friends and Relations’ the
Online Book Company - which is a
supplier member of the NAFD - created
an online book for the Jubilee Hour
where members of the general public
were asked to pledge 60 minutes of
their time to do something legal, decent,
honest and charitable to celebrate 60
years of HM The Queen’s reign.
To the absolute delight of all involved,
over 2.75 million hours were
volunteered. Indeed, Secretary of State
for Local Communities, Eric Pickles,
was so pleased that he invited the team
for tea in Parliament!
This year, the team was invited to
provide a book which is the central
focus of the Waterloo 200 Anniversary
celebrations. Within this book, the team
has collated the names of more than
36,000 British soldiers who took part in
the historic battle. Furthermore, there
is a chapter in the book that is rapidly
being populated with some fantastic
stories from descendants of those who
took part.
This online book is going to be available
for all to see on the company's stand
at the NFE. The team will be on hand
not only to help you identify any family
members who may have taken part,
but also to show you some wonderful
pictures and stories.
Over the last couple of years, Friends
and Relations has seen a growing
demand for its highly innovative online
books. As a result of an increasing
number of client requests, the company
will be showing the recently launched
personalised online books that are
being created for individuals.
In addition to being able to provide
Google maps with directions as well
as service details, the books can be
branded with the funeral firm’s logo and
can be used as a vehicle for collecting
charitable donations as well as for
comments, tributes, films and more.
Rather like the descendants from
Waterloo, this will be something that the
family can reflect on for years to come.
At the NFE, the Online book Company is
on Stand 100.
www.theonlinebookcompany.com
46

VOLVO CAR UK
The best of everything - the most
versatile first call vehicle for work and
offers on Volvo’s range of cars for your
employees for play.
GOLDEN LEAVES
Visit the Golden Leaves team in Hall 2, Stand 345 and find out how the company
has been helping its business partners enjoy the benefits of the Freedom Funeral
Planning approach, including unrivalled levels of financial commission, industry
leading support and partner agreements designed for you and your business.
Golden Leaves has been at the forefront of the development of funeral planning
since its foundation in 1984.
Says Barry Ryan, Managing Director of Golden Leaves: “We are pioneers in the
industry, a founding member of the NAPFP, played a major role in the development
of the regulatory authority the Funeral Planning Authority and I still sit on its
board of directors today. We excel in delivering integrity, honesty and complete
transparency.
“So why not drop in to hear more about how our new Freedom Partner Maturity
programme works and how you could be receiving up to 9% on your matured
funeral plan payouts this year! You don’t even have to be an exclusive seller …
how refreshing is that to hear?! You could also benefit from the wider attraction of
selling Golden Leaves’ innovative FROM50 FMP and Green funeral plans too.
“As Golden Leaves provides proactive and malleable partnership styles, we can
react quickly to the demands of our independent funeral directors and the needs
of their communities, in a way that the largest companies are unable to match.
“Come and have a chat about Freedom – it’s what a real partnership is supposed
to feel like.”
LYN OAKES LTD
British cloths are still to the fore in the
Lyn Oakes formal wear range, chosen
for their well proven and very fit-forpurpose
properties.
Look for the range of cloths used in a
new and exciting range of formal wear
for both men and ladies. Various styles
of trim will be exhibited enabling you to
view first-hand what is available.
Overcoats for both work and leisure
will be on the stand, formal overcoats
with a twist and new elegant designs
for pleasure. The new overcoat range
will impress that, as ever, Lyn Oakes is
still innovative in creating new ideas for
work and leisure.
Visit Lyn Oakes in Hall 2, Stand 335
where a warm welcome will await you.
The Volvo V70 is a car suited to
both funeral removal duties and for
family and leisure activities. With a
maximum cargo capacity of 1600 litres
and five seats, it has eight rear-seat
configurations and folds flat with no
modifications in seconds to create
space. Test it on Volvo’s stand at NFE.
The vehicle comes as standard with
power operated tailgate, city safety
autonomous braking technology,
integrated navigation system, 17”
alloy wheels and metallic paint. You
can combine this with Volvo Cars’ new
Drive-E engines for the best package
possible and choose D3 with 150hp or
D4 with 190hp, both with 65.7 combined
mpg for power and efficiency.
Employees of NAFD member
companies can get a substantial affinity
discount on the Volvo range, and the
package includes servicing and finance
offers, along with free-of-charge
metallic paint.
With its sleek Swedish curves, sporty
looks and cutting-edge Volvo safety
technology, the V40 R-Design is the
standout premium hatchback with
class-leading performance, economy
and comfort.
Choose the Volvo XC60 for a stylish,
driver-focused road car ….. it is every
bit as nimble and agile as a groundhugging
road car. Its ride height gives a
commanding driving position and added
confidence when negotiating busy city
traffic and, with its generous ground
clearance, it'll take you wherever your
adventurous spirit leads you.
SHOW OFFER
Collect a £500 additional discount
voucher for both the company and
employee schemes. Keep the voucher
safe as you can use it against the
purchase of a new Volvo car within 90
days of the show, at your local dealer.
Find out more about the Volvo Car
range at www.volvocars.co.uk or call
the Volvo Car Business Centre on 0345
600 4027.
47

THE CO-OPERATIVE
FUNERALCARE
Cooperative Funeralcare offers completely unique and personalised funeral
services to create a fitting tribute. They take great pride in offering a professional,
caring and sensitive service to clients when they are confronted with the death of
someone they love.
Cooperative Funeralcare continually invests in its people to help them feel
empowered and enabled to provide an exceptional service. The company ensures
that its people have access to regular and ongoing training and accredited
professional qualifications and only recruits people who can demonstrate the
behaviours required in the business.
In 2012, they launched a nationally recognised vocational qualification in Funeral
Operations and Services. They are currently the only funeral director in the UK
providing this professional qualification. This pioneering apprenticeship is offered
to everyone who works in their funeral homes looking after clients and colleagues
are given support from their manager and a dedicated assessor so that they can
confidently work towards success.
If you would like to know more about Cooperative Funeralcare’s
services or starting a career with then then visit their stand or go to
www.co-operativefuneralcare.co.uk
Media planners and advertisers need reassurance too.
An ABC Certificate shows our figures have been
independently verified, giving you confidence
in our claim.
Ask to see our ABC Certificate.
See it, believe it, trust it.
If you want to reach 3.398 1 total average net
circulation, then call Jo Asher on 01525 370013
or email jo@impact-now.co.uk
1. Circulation figure relates to period from 1st July 2012 to 30th June 2013
For more information visit www.abc.org.uk
or email info@abc.org.uk
FD
M
48

FUNERAL PRODUCTS
Innovative firm, Funeral Products is a European wholesaler of urns, ash jewellery
and other remembrance articles.
The firm stresses that continuous product development is one of its drives to cater
to the needs of the funeral industry.
Martin Mordang of Funeral Products said: “Complete this with a friendly service,
fast delivery and high quality products and you will have all the elements of a
successful partnership.
“During the National Funeral Exhibition we will present some new innovative and
unique product lines. The first is a new collection of Dutch ceramics that are also
suitable for placement outside. These hand crafted urns come in different shapes
and colours. On top of that we have updated our entire bohemian crystal collection
to reflect the quality and style these urns represent. Their modern design and
colours will make them suitable to be placed in any household.”
During the National Funeral Exhibition, Funeral Products will also present some of
the best ways to display the urns and ash jewellery.
“Funeral Products does more for its partners than just selling urns. We offer our
customers all the necessary tools (brochures, leaflets, displays) to successfully
sell the remembrance articles,” adds Martin.”
These are just a few things that Funeral Products will show during the show. Visit
the team at stand number 440 in hall 2.
SOMERSET WILLOW COMPANY
The Somerset Willow Company has been making willow coffins since 1998 and
has always prided itself on offering the very best in quality and second-to-none
customer service. These are two principles which still remain today and, with years
of innovative thinking and a desire to be unique, they seek to remain at the forefront
of the UK willow industry.
This year Somerset Willow staff will again be demonstrating their basket-making
skills at the National Funeral Exhibition, They are the UK’s first basket manufacturer
to offer an official Level 3 Diploma in Creative Craft Skills Apprenticeship. This is a
very exciting time for both Bridgwater College and for Somerset Willow Company,
as there has never been a nationally recognised qualification for basket makers in
the UK before.
Somerset Willow is grateful for the support of their customers who have
supported the company since it launched, enabling them to continue making the
highest quality products, expand and pass down generations of skills to their new
apprentices, which will help preserve a very traditional British skill for many years
to come.
Somerset Willow is also very pleased to showcase a new interactive tool ‘Create
Your Own Coffin’ feature that has been built into their new website. Staff will be on
hand at the exhibition to show how this interactive tool can help funeral directors
and families to choose a chosen coffin design, add main coffin colour and coloured
banding. The design can be viewed and shared via email, Twitter, Facebook or a
print, so that families can see beforehand what the coffin will look like.
Visit Somerset Willow on Stand No. 270 at the National Funeral Exhibition or by
visiting www.willowcoffins.co.uk. You can call them on 01278 424003 or email
enquiries@somersetwillow.co.uk.
JC WALWYN
AND SONS LTD
After a break of four years, JC Walwyn
and Sons Ltd is excited to be back at
the National Funeral Exhibition 2015 on
stand number 425 in hall 2.
During the show the firm is launching a
brand new brochure that shows a wide
variety of the products and services
offered, so why not come along and pick
up your free copy.
On show will be a range of traditional
veneered coffins in a variety of styles;
traditional solid timber coffins and a
brand new range of wood-effect coffins.
Says Simon Walwyn: “We believe
these coffins are the best we have ever
offered for sale. So make sure you
come and have a good look around. Our
new range of religious scene coffins
will be on display. As well as the Last
Supper coffin, you will be able to see
the Lourdes scene, Knock scene, and
Foot of the Cross panels.”
A prototype picture coffin depicting
a local Ashbourne scene will be on
display. This will be the firm’s first
venture into the picture coffin market,
and it is keen to receive feedback.
Adds Simon: “Most excitingly, there
will be a prize draw on the stand with
an iPad to win so please make sure you
come along and enter. We look forward
to welcoming you on to our stand
number 425 Hall 2.”
49

GOLDEN
CHARTER
Golden Charter is encouraging
independents of all shapes and sizes to
stop by its stand for a coffee and a chat
at this year’s NFE.
As demand for pre-paid funeral
planning grows, the product is evolving
and the company would like to take this
opportunity to talk to you about its new
funeral plan and Will product.
Including a Will with funeral plans is
just one way Golden Charter can help
you to provide your families with peace
of mind for the future.
Staff at the Golden Charter stand will
be on hand to answer any questions
you may have and let you know about
the most important developments in
funeral planning.
As the county’s largest and fastest
growing provider of funeral plans,
the majority of independent funeral
directors already understand the
rewards of working with the Golden
Charter team, so whether or not you
already offer Golden Charter plans,
drop by for a chat at Stoneleigh Park on
12 to 14 June.
BROOK
YORK
Brook York will be showing a capsule
collection of its unique clothing at NFE
2015.
Elegant and practical clothing by
Brook York has been used by the
funeral profession for over thirty
years, matched with high quality and
style, together with first class service.
The range of garments carried are
supplemented by equally superior
accessories such as hats, shirts,
shoes and gloves - all by leading brand
manufacturers.
If you cannot find what you are looking
for on the stand at NFE, Brook York will
have copies of its new 2015 brochure
on the stand. Collect one and view at
your leisure.
A quick telephone call or email
enquiry to Brook York will be swiftly
answered by Lin or Julie who will be
able to help you.
Please visit us in Hall 2 stand 405.
Sarah will be in attendance and will be
pleased to meet you.
COLOURFUL
COFFINS
Innovation and new products are the
major themes for Colourful Coffins
on stands 275 and 207 at this year’s
National Funeral Exhibition (NFE).
Since relinquishing the reins as
Managing Director and moving into a
developmental role, Mary Tomes has
been hard at work on a number of new
ideas which will be revealed for the first
time at the event.
“It’s all very exciting. We’re innovating
across our product line, both in terms of
picture coffin design and accessories,
so I’ll be very keen to see what funeral
directors think of our new ranges and
how they can help offer greater choice
to client families,” said Mary.
Although keeping several of her ideas
under wraps until the show starts,
among the new products on display
will be an American style metal casket
in black with a “new twist”, and a
pure white American style solid wood
casket with what Mary describes as a
“gorgeous” colourful design.
A new plush Memory Bear will also be
launched – standing 17” tall and with
a concealed container for cremated
remains or keepsakes – which can
be personalised for the first time with
a colourful ribbon featuring a child’s
name. Adding to the personal touch,
Mary is also calling on show visitors to
come up with a suitable name for the
bear and is promising a bottle of fizz for
the winning entry.
Other features on display include
new designs for traditional wooden
and cardboard picture coffins, as well
as the company’s new blonde rattan
coffins, plus a selection of accessories,
including scatter tubes and memory
and keepsake boxes.
In addition, meeting attendees for the
first time will be Colourful Coffins’ new
Managing Director, Chris Lima. He
joined the business last autumn and
says he is looking forward to meeting
as many funeral directors and funeral
trade colleagues as possible.
50

SECURE HAVEN
Essex couple, Paul and Cheryl Yarwood, took a bold and fresh approach to the
issues and attitudes surrounding death when they set up Secure Haven.
Established last year in a beautiful Grade II-listed barn in Essex, the company
is helping bereaved families by offering an alternative pathway for their journey
through grief following cremation. Secure Haven offers the only UK service for the
collection and dignified short or long-term storage of cremated remains within
private secure niches. This gives families valuable thinking time so that decisions
about a final resting place, can be free from anxiety. The support team can also aid
families to find the most suitable resting place when the time is right.
The Yarwoods have scoured the world to create a range of ecological, ethical and
cost sensitive ‘greener’ products for cremated remains exclusive to the UK. These
include beautiful biodegradable urns – the Spiritree, the Bios Urn and the Limbo
Geos Urns, in which ashes can be buried incorporating a growing tree sapling that
will continue to grow as a living memorial.
For these whose long held desire or cultural preferences are for a sea committal,
Secure Haven is also the sole distributor of dissolvable Limbo Samsara and
Nu Urns. Also on offer is a collection of elegant brass urns, keepsakes and ash
jewellery which the company designs and manufactures.
All these options can be specified as part of a will or funeral plan.
Email Secure Haven on enquiries@securehaven.co.uk or call 01277 353776.
www.securehaven.co.uk
The UK’s leading
manufacturer of willow coffins
• All of our coffins are hand
woven in Somerset by our
dedicated craftsmen using
our own willow grown on
the Somerset levels.
• A large variety of stock sizes
are available on a 24hr next
day service.
• For a completely personal
service we can make
bespoke sizes available on
a 48hr service.
• We can provide matching
ashes caskets, baby crib
caskets, children’s caskets, and
we also offer the following
fittings: natural cotton liner,
biodegradable crem liner,
jute shroud set, natural
headrest and an engraved
oak nameplate.
Tel : 01278 424003 | Fax: 01278 446415 | enquiries@somersetwillow.co.uk | www.willowcoffins.co.uk
51

52

INDUSTRY NEWS
THE FUNERAL PLANNING AUTHORITY - WHAT IS IT ALL ABOUT?
BY GRAEME MCAUSLAND, FUNERAL PLANNING AUTHORITY CHIEF EXECUTIVE
This is a question I asked myself
when I considered taking on
the role of Chief Executive
of the Funeral Planning
Authority (FPA). In summary,
the FPA is there to try and
provide a degree of protection
for customers of providers
that are registered with the
FPA. To gain that registration
these providers have to pass
independent scrutiny on how
they work and how they protect
customers’ interests.
The FPA is not a club, providers are not
members and it is certainly not a trade
body acting in the interests of providers
or funeral directors. Our focus is on
the customer, and I hope my early
interaction with providers confirms that
position.
Funeral plans have been subject to
regulation since 1 January 2002 when
the Financial Services & Markets Act
2000 (Regulated Activities Order 2001)
came into operation. In essence, this
says that funeral plans (a defined
term) are excluded from regulation by
the Financial Conduct Authority (“the
FCA”) if, in simple terms, the monies
paid for the plan are used to purchase a
whole of life insurance or held in trust.
Consequently, funeral plan providers
that comply with those criteria are not
subject to direct regulation by the FCA.
However in 2002 the principal trade
associations - the Funeral Planning
Council and the National Association
for Pre-Paid Funeral Plans -
recognised the value of self regulation
for the industry and, after consultation
with stakeholders including HM
Government, the Office of Fair Trading
and consumer bodies, established the
FPA.
The FPA is a company limited by
guarantee and the two trade associations
appoint the Directors and the wholly
independent Chairman. Fundamental
to the model is that the self regulation
process is undertaken by a wholly
independent Compliance Committee
supported by the Chief Executive.
Registered providers are required to
comply with the requirements imposed
by the FPA’s Rules and Code of Practice.
There is an annual process of reregistration,
which includes in the case
of trust-based fundsthe re-appraisal
of their trust deed, their terms and
conditions and the trust balance sheet
and actuarial review. They also subject
themselves to the FPA's complaints
procedure through conciliation and
arbitration provided by IDRS Ltd (a
subsidiary of the Centre for Effective
Dispute Resolution). All of this scrutiny
is intended to reduce the prospect of
adverse outcomes for customers.
Looking at the funeral planning sector in
numbers, there are currently seventeen
companies registered with the FPA that
write, between them, about 150,000
funeral plans each year and “pay out”
on about 60,000. Consequently, the
portfolio of “undrawn” funeral plans
continues to increase and currently
stands at about 950,000 as at the end
of 2014. The FPA estimates that this
provides coverage over some 90-95% of
funeral plan providers.
It is clear from the numbers above
that the funeral planning market
now impacts significant numbers of
customers and continues to grow. My
concern is to ensure that customers
are protected as this growth continues.
A key worry, therefore, are funeral
planning companies that do not
subject themselves to any independent
scrutiny. To give this some further
context, during our annual registration
process our Complaince Committee
will consider as a mimimum:-
1. the trust deed or insurance
arrangements to ensure these meet
GRAEME MCAUSLAND
FUNERAL PLANNING AUTHORITY
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
Graeme is a qualified actuary and
has spent his working life in the life
assurance industry. He has held
various senior roles in that industry
including, most recently, Chief
Executive of a mutual insurer and UK
Group Finance Director of another
insurer. He also holds non-executive
roles with an AIM listed stockbroker
and a insurance company where he
Chairs the Audit Committees. He
was appointed to the FPA Board in
December 2014.
53

FPA
IN NUMBERS
Looking at the funeral planning
sector in numbers, there are
currently seventeen companies
registered with the FPA that write,
between them, about 150,000 funeral
plans each year and “pay out” on
about 60,000. Consequently, the
portfolio of “undrawn” funeral plans
continues to increase and currently
stands at about 950,000 as at the end
of 2014. The FPA estimates that this
provides coverage over some 90-
95% of funeral plan providers.
the requirements of the exemptions in
the Financial Services and Markets Act
2000 (Regulated Activities) Order 2001
and the FPA Rules. In particular, a key
component of this is to ensure there are
independent trustees;
2. accounts from the provider company
and the trust reflecting appropriate
accounting for the trust and the
liabilities that may be incurred by
the provider that lie outside the trust
or the insurance policy as relevant.
This includes considering actuarial
valuations of the trust by a qualified
actuary;
3. a statement of Investment Principles
and an understanding of how these
are implemented in practice for trust
based plans. Details of the insurance
policy and the insurance company for
insurance based plans;
4. an understanding of the detailed
economics of the business;
5. an understanding of the relationships
with funeral directors and the degree to
which commercial agreements are in
place for them to carry out funerals. If
such agreements are not in place across
the book of plans the Committee will
wish to understand how this is allowed
for in any assessment of liabilities.
We believe that a similar degree of
scrutiny is needed for customers
of non-registered plan providers.
Therefore, we recommend that, as far
as possible, prospective customers, or
their advisers, seek to find out answers
to these questions. Well-run providers
that have chosen not to register with
the FPA will be able to answer these
questions without too much difficulty.
We also believe that funeral dirctors and
other adviser firms should be asking
questions when considering working
with non-registered providers. When
doing so remember the old adage of ”if
it looks too good to be true it probably
is” - an approach that results in lowest
price, highest commission and largest
payout may work, but it may just be too
good to be true.
Another area of concern is that we still
see situations where funeral directors
take money from customers allegedly
for funeral plans and then the money
never reaches a plan. This practice
damages the industry as a whole.
While there is no regulatory model that
will absolutely eliminate fraudulent
behaviour we do, of course, want to
ensure customers are not mistreated in
“Our focus is on
the customer,
and I hope my
early interaction
with providers
confirms that
position”
such a way. I would, therfore, urge that
you let us know if you have any sense
of anyone operating in this manner
and we will raise the matter with the
relevant authorities.
As someone relatively new to this
market, I am encouraged by the
overwhelming sense of people wanting
to do the right thing. However, this
makes it even more important that
we remain vigilant about the minority
who want to play by their own, or no
rules - potentially to the customers’
disadvantage.
I ask you all for your support in helping
ensure we keep the market functioning
as well as possible and, in doing so,
ensure that customers continue to be
protected.
NEW GUIDE TO HELP PREPARE PEOPLE ON WHAT
TO EXPECT WHEN SOMEONE THEY KNOW IS DYING
A new guide that prepares people on
what to expect when someone is dying
has been published by the National
Council for Palliative Care.
What to expect when someone
important to you is dying aims to
demystify the dying process so that
people better understand the changes
that can happen to their loved ones in
the last days of life.
Shaped by people who have experienced
the death of someone they were close
to, and with support from NHS England,
Marie Curie, Sue Ryder and Hospice
UK, the guide is intended to make the
last hours and days of someone’s life
less distressing for all concerned,
including friends, family members and
carers.
As well as explaining the physical
changes that someone may go through
when they are dying and what can be
done to make them more comfortable,
the guide sets out the kind of care a
dying person can expect to receive. It
also details the support those close to
the person who is dying should be able
to rely on and where to turn to for help if
there are concerns about the end of life
care received.
For more information please visit:
www.ncpc.org.uk
54

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57

CHARITY
SPOTLIGHT
“HE CAN BE BRAVE LIKE THE LIONS”
How Make-A-Wish grants
magical wishes to help children
and young people fight lifethreatening
conditions.
Eight-year-old Joshua has had an
incredibly difficult year, but a magical
wish to be a zookeeper helped him
regain his confidence.
Joshua was diagnosed with Acute
Lymphoblastic Leukaemia in March last
year at just 7 years old. On diagnosis, he
began months of intensive treatment,
involving chemotherapy, a lumbar
puncture and spells of time in hospital.
During this time Joshua lost a lot of
weight and picked up several infections.
Before he became ill, Joshua was a
confident little boy who loved reading
and learning. But his condition took its
toll, having a big impact on both Joshua
and his family. He became very weak
and lost his confidence. His dad had to
give up work to help look after Joshua,
and his brother and sisters struggled
with what was happening.
Joshua’s family turned to Make-A-Wish ®
UK, the charity that grants magical
wishes to children and young people
fighting life-threatening conditions.
Make-A-Wish sent specially trained
volunteers to meet Joshua to find out
what his wish was. He has always loved
animals, particularly cats, so he wished
to be a zookeeper for a day so he could
get up close with the big cats and other
animals.
Thanks to money raised by supporters,
the charity organised a special day for
Joshua and his family at Longleat Safari
Park. This gave them the chance to
spend precious time together to create
happy memories and forget about his
condition for a day.
After the wish, mum Nicola explained:
“Joshua has seen the big cats up close
and the bravery of a lion, which I think
has changed the way he is looking
at himself. Instead of thinking and
talking about what he can do ‘when he
gets better’, he has realised he can do
things now and be brave like the lions.
His diagnosis is more at the back of
his thoughts, rather than the forefront,
hence him wanting to read more and
learn again. He is more positive and
realises he can live life fully now.”
Make-A-Wish can only grant magical
wishes to children like Joshua because
of kind donations from members of
the public, companies, groups and
organisations. The charity receives no
Government funding so, without these
donations, the wishes simply would not
be possible.
And these donations are frequently
made in memory of a loved one. When
a family chooses to donate to Make-A-
Wish in memory of a loved one it is often
because they want something good to
come out of their own bereavement.
One supporter explained: “It was such a
sad time when dad died and we wanted
something nice to come out of it. Dad
loved children. He would have been
happy that we have brought some joy
into a child’s life.”
To help facilitate these donations, the
charity can provide funeral homes with
donation envelopes and online donation
pages.
Involvement doesn’t have to be limited
to handling clients’ donations. Many
funeral businesses choose to support
Make-A-Wish through their company.
The charity has a wealth of experience
working with companies of all sizes.
The fundraising team can support many
different types of partnership, from
colleague fundraising to commercial
partnerships.
However you get involved, from managing
client donations to supporting the charity
as a company, your efforts will be helping
children like Joshua and their families at
an incredibly difficult time.
Since 1986, the charity has granted
wishes to more than 9,000 children and
young people like Joshua. There are
around 20,000 children in the UK living
with a life-threatening condition. This
year over 1,000 children will turn to the
charity for a wish ... and it never turns
an eligible child away. But those wishes
would not be granted without the support
of people like you. So, whether you
recommend Make-A-Wish to a client or
do some fundraising of your own, please
help families create happy memories – at
a time they’re needed the most.
For more information on Make-A-Wish
and ways to get involved contact Katy
Meade on 01276 40 50 53 or email
katy.meade@makeawish.org.uk
58

59

DISPATCHES
STOP NATIONALISATION CAMPAIGN
UPDATE
The Minister for Local Government, Kris Hopkins, has responded
to the NAFD’s letter that outlined its deep concerns about the
actions of North East Lincolnshire Council (NELC).
Mr Hopkins stated that central Government was unable to
intervene in local councils’ decision making but provided some
important pointers that are being used in the NAFD’s campaign.
He stated that local authorities were subject to competition law
and state aid regulations, just as other bodies were. Hopkins
also stated that the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA)
provided a route for the NAFD to make an official complaint
about its competition concerns.
NAFD Chief Executive Officer, Alan Slater, said: “I warned
members in the last edition of Funeral Director Monthly about
what was happening at NELC and the wider implications for
every funeral directing firm that operated in the UK. A campaign
group has been formed by the NAFD and draft letters can be
found on our website for ALL members to utilise. All NAFD
members throughout the UK need to act.
“The campaign group will help mastermind our lobbying
activities, including making an official complaint on behalf of the
funeral industry to the CMA. The group will also help members
in Lincolnshire take their concerns to the Council at both officer
and councillor level.”
LABOUR PLEDGE TO BAN
‘EXPLOITATIVE’ ZERO HOURS
CONTRACTS
Labour Leader Ed Miliband announced on 1 April that a future
Labour Government would introduce legislation to ban zero
hours contracts for employees who were, in practice, working
regular hours. This new legal right to a regular contract would
apply to workers after just 12 weeks.
“ There are now
three times as
many people
on zero hours
contracts as
there were
when this
Government
came to power
”
Ed Miliband said: “The problem of zero hours contracts is at the
heart of the key question in this election - who does our country
work for? Does it work just for the rich and the powerful? Or
does it work for working people - the people looking for a job,
trying to find enough money to support a family, to make ends
meet?
“The explosion of zero hours contracts tells us the answer to
that question in Britain right now. There are now three times as
many people on zero hours contracts as there were when this
Government came to power - a 20% increase in the last year
alone, 1.8 million work contracts without guaranteed hours.”
60

ones—a major challenge in an area
where people are reliant on public
transport. I, therefore, present this
petition to the House of Commons on
behalf of West Lancashire Pensioners
Forum and for the residents of West
Lancashire.”
PARLIAMENTARY
ACTIVITY
Prior to being dissolved on 30 March,
Parliament published several written
answers relevant to the funeral
industry, as well as a petition that
had been presented to the House of
Commons.
Then Labour MP for West Lancashire and
member of the All Party Parliamentary
Funerals & Bereavement Group, Rosie
Cooper, presented a petition to the
Commons Chamber. The petition,
which called for more cemetery and
crematorium provision, was signed by
two thousand individuals.
Upon presenting the petition, Ms
Cooper said: “For several years I have
been campaigning alongside various
community groups, including the
West Lancashire Pensioners Forum.
Our aim is to secure new cemetery
and crematorium provision in West
Lancashire, thereby rectifying the
awful and unacceptable situation facing
many residents. It is an issue that West
Lancashire Borough Council refuses to
address.
“Too many families are laying their loved
ones to rest in neighbouring Boroughs
due to the unavailability of local burial
plots. These families are incurring
higher funeral costs and have to travel
further to visit the graves of their loved
BURIAL AND
CREMATION SERVICES
IN WEST LANCASHIRE
The petition states:
The Petition of residents of the West
Lancashire constituency,
Declares that burial and cremation
services should be provided in West
Lancashire without delay; further that
this provision will mean that burial and
cremation services are less expensive
and more convenient for residents and
further that a local petition on this matter
has been signed by 2000 individuals.
The Petitioners therefore request
that the House of Commons urges
the Government to encourage West
Lancashire Borough Council to provide
burial and cremation services in West
Lancashire.
And the Petitioners remain, etc.
61

“
We are running an awareness-raising
campaign to encourage people to plan for
the future which could include making a
will and a Lasting Power of Attorney
”
applications in a given time period. DWP
does not hold data on the number of
individuals making applications.
Table 1: Funeral Expenses Payment
applications and awards in the Chorlton
BDC Social Fund Budget Area in 2014
Year Applications Awards
2014 5,010 2,950
On 17 March, the then Democratic
Unionist Party MP, Gregory Campbell,
asked the Secretary of State for Justice
how many people died without a will in
each year since 2004. Justice Minister
Shailesh Vara answered, stating that
no central record was available on
what portion of the population died in
intestacy.
INTESTACY
17 March 2015
Mr Gregory Campbell (East
Londonderry): To ask the Secretary of
State for Justice, what estimate he has
made of how many and what proportion
of the population died without a will in
each year since 2004.
Mr Shailesh Vara: There is no central
record of whether individuals have a valid
will when they die and we have made no
estimate of what proportion of individuals
die without a will.
The Government recognises that when
someone dies without a will, it can
mean that the individual’s wishes are not
implemented and can leave the family
with lengthy and costly court procedures.
That is why we are running an awarenessraising
campaign to encourage people to
plan for the future which could include
making a will and a Lasting Power of
Attorney.
Mark Hendrick, then Labour Member
of Parliament for Preston, asked the
Department for Work and Pensions
(DWP) for the number of people in
Preston who had applied for a Social Fund
Funeral Payment in 2014, and how many
of those were successful. DWP Minister
Steve Webb supplied the number of
applications and awards for the Chorlton
Benefit Delivery Centre, stating that
the DWP didn’t hold constituency-level
Funeral Expenses Payments information.
He also cautioned that the data did
not discriminate between multiple
applications by the same individual.
FUNERAL PAYMENTS:
PRESTON
18 March 2015
Mark Hendrick (Preston): To ask the
Secretary of State for Work and Pensions,
how many people in Preston constituency
(a) applied for and (b) received a Social
Fund funeral payment in 2014.
Steve Webb: DWP does not hold
data on Funeral Expenses Payments
at constituency level. The lowest
geographical level at which we hold the
data is by Social Fund Budget Area; the
geographical areas used to administer
the Social Fund in Great Britain.
The Budget Area covering Preston is
Chorlton Benefit Delivery Centre (BDC).
Table 1 shows the number of Funeral
Expenses Payment a) applications and
b) awards in the Chorlton BDC Budget
Area in 2014. The Chorlton BDC Budget
Area covers parts of 31 different Local
Authorities, so these figures will include
Funeral Expenses Payments made
outside of the constituency of Preston.
The number of awards made in each year
is not equal to the number of people who
made applications or received awards in
that year. An individual may make multiple
Then Conservative Member for
Shrewsbury, Daniel Kawczynski, asked
the Ministry of Justice whether a
National Crematorium Inspector would
be appointed after death certification
reforms were implemented. Justice
Minister, Simon Hughes MP, replied
that there would be an opportunity to
consider such policies when cremation
regulations were brought in line with
certification reforms.
CREMATION
24 March 2015
Daniel Kawczynski (Shrewsbury and
Atcham): To ask the Secretary of State
for Justice, if he will make it his policy
to appoint a National Crematorium
Inspector after the amendment of
cremation regulations and death
certification reforms.
Simon Hughes: I refer to my answer of 5
March for PQ 225548 which can be found
at: http://www.parliament.uk/business/
publications/written-questionsanswers-statements/written-question/
Commons/2015-02-26/225548/
When I set out that the Department of
Health implements its death certification
reforms, the Ministry of Justice will
also amend its cremation regulations
to reflect the changes to cremation
authorisation processes. Planning for
these reforms will present an opportunity
for consultation and to consider the
recommendations both of the Shropshire
inquiry and the 2014 Infant Cremation
Commission in Scotland, including the
appointment of a National Inspector of
Crematoria.
62

yourfuneraldirectors.co.uk
Whatever size of company
you are, come and visit
us at NFE Stand 14, Hall 1
Join us at Stoneleigh
Park, Warwickshire
on 12 to 14 June
As demand for pre-paid funeral planning grows,
the product is evolving and we would like to
take this opportunity to talk to you about our
new enhanced funeral plans.
Staff at the Golden Charter stand will be able to
answer any questions you have and let you know
the most important developments in funeral planning.
As the county’s largest and fastest growing
provider of funeral plans, the majority of
independent funeral directors already
understand the rewards of working with our
team so whether or not you already offer
Golden Charter plans, we look forward to
speaking with you on Stand 14, Hall 1 at
Stoneleigh Park on 12 to 14 June.
GC-LIFT 10832
No other provider delivers like Golden Charter
63

PROFESSIONAL
DEVELOPMENT
NAFD TRAINING WORKSHOPS
Build on the experience and strengths
of your team with bespoke training
at your own business or at NAFD
National Office
NAFD members can benefit from a
series of cost-effective one-day training
workshops planned for delivery
throughout 2015.
The training workshops - Vehicle First,
Creating Client Confidence and Client
Excellence - are suitable for employees
currently working in the funeral service,
irrespective of their length of service.
They offer the opportunity to build on
the experience and strengths of you
and your team, further enhancing
knowledge, skills and expertise.
NAFD Training is delivered by
experienced and qualified training
professionals. The face-to-face training
sessions involve a high degree of
participation and interaction with
other members of the group and with
the trainer – something that can’t be
achieved through online learning alone.
2015 WORKSHOP DATES
• Vehicle First: 03 June, 09 September,
16 November
• Creating Client Confidence: 08 May,
18 June, 24 September, 19 November
• Client Excellence: 11 May, 25 June,
29 September, 26 November
For details of each course, members
can download a copy of the NAFD
Training Options Brochure 2015 from
the Education section of the members’
area of the NAFD website.
The NAFD is also able to bring its
workshops to you. We can assist
employers who wish for a number of
employees to be trained within their
own workplace, subject to assessing
the chosen venue’s suitability for
training purposes.
To book your places or discuss options
for training within your business,
please contact Gill Anderson by email
at trainingadministration@nafd.org.
uk or call her at National Office on
0121 711 1343 ext 25
64

Your needs
Our solutions
Our asset finance is designed to allow the purchase of specialist
equipment and vehicles that your business requires.
Visit stand 218 at the National Funeral Exhibition between the 12 & 14th June in Stonleigh,
where our experienced team will be available to discuss any finance needs you may have.
Whilst at our stand, enter our free prize draw to win £200 to spend
in John Lewis.
To find out more contact us on 01563 852100 or visit www.braemarfinance.co.uk
Part of Close Brothers Group
Finance approval is subject to status
Braemar Finance is a trading style of Close Brothers Limited. Close Brothers Limited is registered in England and Wales (Company Number 00195626) and its registered
office is 10 Crown Place, London, EC2A 4FT.
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65

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Donating in their memory to Breakthrough Breast Cancer
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their fight against breast cancer and using it to change the lives
of future generations.
By giving in memory your clients will help fund our
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and ultimately beat breast cancer.
For more information or to order collection
envelopes contact our In Memory team.
Telephone: 08080 100 200
Email: tribute@breakthrough.org.uk
Website: breakthrough.org.uk/inmemory
Charity registered in England & Wales (No 1062636) and Scotland (No SC039058)
66

NAFD FAST TRACK DEBT RECOVERY SERVICE
ARRANGING PAYMENT
INSTALMENTS
Until recently, if you wanted to arrange payment instalments for
a customer when arranging a funeral (or providing any other
service or supply of goods to a consumer) there were strict rules
that governed whether the agreement was a Regulated Credit
Agreement under the Consumer Credit Act.
What this means for funeral firms
is that you may be able offer up to
twelve months’ credit against your
service without having to apply for FCA
regulation. Obviously, you must be
sure you meet all the criteria. Further
details can be found on the FCAs
website http://goo.gl/G7VUbL
NEIL BOWLER
HEAD OF FINANCE
Direct Line: 01827 768744
Mobile: 07971 768734
Email: nbowler@tdrb.co.uk.
Website: www.tdrb.co.uk/nafd
A significant change has been made
following the introduction of new
legislation. This is important because,
if you reached an agreement that
was defined as a Regulated Credit
Agreement, you would need to be
authorised by the Financial Conduct
Authority. (Note: until 01 April 2014,
the requirement was for a Consumer
Credit Licence issued by the Office of
Fair Trading (OFT). On this date, the
Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) took
over the responsibility for the regulation
of consumer credit.)
Until 18 March 2015, a credit agreement
was exempt if it met all the following
criteria:-
• it was repayable by no more than four
instalments (ie quarterly), within no
more than twelve months;
• it was a borrower-lender-supplier
agreement (ie it financed the
acquisition of specific goods or
services);
• it was for a fixed amount;
• it involved no charges or interest (ie
there could be no admin fee).
On 18 March, the Government
introduced the new legislation which
extended the exemption for instalment
credit. Under the new legislation, a
credit agreement will be exempt if it
meets the last three criteria above and
also if it is repayable by no more than
twelve instalments (ie monthly), within
no more than 12 months.
If you do wish to offer more flexible
credit options, it may well be the
case that you can apply for Limited
Permission from the FCA. Its ‘decision
tool’ for whether you would require
limited or full permission is at http://
goo.gl/voAisa. Please note that the
application process for full permission
is rather onerous.
With any of this, I would also bear in
mind that, if you do offer a payment
plan, it will take time to administer,
manage the payments, etc, and you
could find problems further down the
line with such accounts.
Of course there is also the situation
where you have provided the service,
issued your invoice and the customer
says they cannot pay, or you are
contacted by a debt management
company on their behalf. I have covered
this situation in a previous article and
we understand that you do not need
FCA permission to accept instalments
on an invoice where the customer is
struggling to pay it in full.
As ever, if you would like more
information or you’re unsure about any
related issues, please feel free to call
(01827 768744) or email me (nbowler@
tdrb.co.uk).
THE DEBT RECOVERY BUREAU
67

IN THE NEWS
This month, the NAFD launches two
new short films, one for bereaved
families and one for prospective
members of the NAFD.
To be launched at the NAFD Conference
in Edinburgh on 14 – 17 May, the new
videos will also feature on the new
NAFD website and on the Association’s
social media channels.
For Wordsmith Communication, the
NAFD’s PR agency, the past few weeks
has included securing interviews with
a number of NAFD members as part of
the making of the new films as well as
responding to the usual wide variety of
media enquiries.
In recent weeks this has included a
number of stories about the cost of a
funeral in Scotland, for key media north
of the border and follow-up stories on
the ‘nationalisation by the back-door’
response that the Association ran in
response to the plan by North East
Lincolnshire Council to operate funeral
services. This is set to be a key theme
for the Association, both in the media
and Parliament, in the months to come.
Yet another milestone is creeping up
on the NAFD on social media as the
Association’s Twitter feed looks set to
join its Facebook page in reaching the
1,000 followers mark.
Can you help get the NAFD over the line
with a friendly #followfriday tweet?
68
BELIEVE IT OR NOT!
The death of an Afghan woman in April
was followed by an extraordinary funeral
which drew hundreds onto the streets
of Kabul to witness a break in usual
customs.
Farkhunda, a 28 year-old woman, was
killed by a mob of more than 500 men for
allegedly burning the Koran. Following
her shocking execution, Farkhunda’s
father gave permission for women’s
rights activists to carry her coffin, a
revolutionary move defying the usual
tradition of men only pallbearers and
funerals.
Back in the UK, April also featured
the news of a funeral which had to be
delayed after the body of an overweight
deceased hospital patient froze solid and
got stuck inside the mortuary freezer.
Due to the way the body had been frozen,
hospital staff struggled to remove it from
its compartment in time for the funeral
service. The freezer was eventually
turned off allowing the body to thaw out
so it could be removed. The funeral was
rearranged to take place later.
The incident, which happened at Kings
College Hospital in London, was one of
87 recorded incidents last year by the
Human Tissue Authority of a hospital
mishap involving a body.
An undertaker in Munstermann,
Germany recently had the shock of his
life when the coffin lid slid open and the
supposedly ‘dead’ woman inside asked
“Where am I?”
When the funeral director recovered
from his fright and came to, he found
the 92 year-old woman lying in the coffin
with her eyes open. On checking the
lady’s pulse he called an ambulance
which hurried to the scene to take the
lady back to the local hospital.
While it’s popular in Utah, United States
of America, a dish that isn’t so well known
in England is a cheesy potato casserole
known as Funeral Potatoes. The dish
earned its name as it is regularly served
as a comfort food during traditional
after-funeral dinners, particularly within
the Mormon community.
There are different variations of the dish,
with some using a topping of cornflakes
on the potatoes. Despite its unusual
name and ingredients, its popularity
in America makes it one of the most
Googled recipes in Utah at Thanksgiving.
Want to try it out? You can find a recipe
at: http://jamiecooksitup.net/2012/04/
cheesy-potato-casserole-aka-funeralpotatoes/

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69

INSURANCE
FORUM
NEW MOTOR FLEET INSURANCE PARTNERSHIP,
SAME FANTASTIC COVER
A specific policy tailored for the funeral
industry. SEIB Insurance Brokers
is partnering with multinational
insurer RSA Insurance and continues
to provide a specific motor fleet
policy tailored to meet the unique
requirements and demands of the
funeral industry.
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO –
BUSINESS AS USUAL
With this new partnership SEIB has
ensured that, when you receive your
renewal invitation, there is no need for
any extra paperwork to be completed.
SEIB will be processing your motor
fleet renewal seamlessly … just follow
the instructions in your letter. As usual,
if you are in doubt or want to discuss
your policy further, SEIB is only a phone
call away.
SAME GREAT BENEFITS…AND
MORE
Clients can have peace of mind that
SEIB, back working in partnership with
RSA, will continue to support the future
of your business. This will include the
option to add young drivers between
the ages of 17 and 21 to the policy and
imposing no upper age limit on any
licensed drivers.
The Funeral Director Policy contains
no excess for fire or theft, a low excess
of £100 for accidental damage and
unlimited windscreen cover with no
excess. It also provides eemergency
replacement vehicles in the case of
loss of, or damage to, a motor hearse,
any vehicle used for the carriage of
mourners or an ambulance used solely
for the transportation of bodies – all in
accordance with what suits your vehicle
cortege. The policy extends to provide
the appropriate vehicle regardless of
who is at fault for the incident.
In addition, cover is provided for damage
to coffins and flowers up to £1000.
SEIB continues to offer the extension
of breakdown cover for all vehicles and
can also include European travel for
pleasure use.
RSA
Established in 1710, London-based RSA
Insurance has over 300 years’ heritage
and is one of the leading multinational
quoted insurance groups in the world,
RSA is delighted to have SEIB back as
a partner.
RSA prides itself on delivering a
commercial claims experience that
defines the exceptional quality of its
products. Delivering on its promise –
before, during and after a claim – is at
the heart of everything it does.
RSA has many years’ experience
handling claims for the funeral industry
and will provide SEIB clients with a
dedicated claims handling team and
a service tailored specifically to them.
All team members are focused and
passionate about delivering exceptional
levels of service. Not only that, but
they are experienced in dealing with
the funeral industry, with one team
member being the daughter of a funeral
director and another having worked
with Coleman Milne, learning how
limousines are stretched. In addition to
this, one of the engineers in RSA’s inhouse
engineering team has worked as
a coachbuilder, building and repairing
hearses.
PROVIDING THE RIGHT SERVICE
SEIB has over 40 years’ experience in
the funeral industry and understands
the importance of great personal
service. That is why its clients are on
first names terms with the claims and
client services staff. Just one example
of how SEIB offers the services of a
local broker on a national scale.
• As the appointed broker to the National
Association of Funeral Directors, SEIB
also provides the invaluable member
benefit of professional indemnity and
legal expenses covers.
• With its many years of expertise, SEIB
is constantly finding ways to improve
service and provide the best cover
with a stable insurance company
helping clients to feel a real sense
of security with their most prized
business assets.
• RSA is ‘A’ rated by Standard & Poor’s,
proving to be a financially secure
UK insurer more than capable of
protecting your business assets.
• Tailored claims solutions – delivered
by experts – for every eventuality.
For more information, visit
www.seib.co.uk or follow them
on Twitter @SEIB_Insurance and
Facebook by searching SEIB Insurance
Broker
70

71

NEEDLESTICK
SAFETY AND
REGULATIONS
BY REBECCA ALLEN OF INITIAL MEDICAL
Needlestick safety is something that everyone working in the funeral
services industry needs to be acutely aware of as part of the day-today
role. When you consider the risk of infection following a needlestick
injury is estimated to be 1 in 3 for HBV, 1 in 30 for HCV and 1 in 300 for
HIV**, it is vital that safety procedures are followed at all times.
All employers are required under
existing health and safety law to ensure
that risks from sharps injuries are
adequately assessed and appropriate
control measures are in place. The
Health & Safety (Sharp Instruments in
Healthcare) Regulations 2013 build on
the existing law and provide specific
detail on requirements that must be
taken by healthcare employers and
their contractors, namely:-
(a) the use of medical sharps at work
is avoided so far as is reasonably
practicable;
(b) when medical sharps are used at
work, safer sharps are used so far as is
reasonably practicable;
(c) needles that are medical sharps
are not capped after use at work
unless (i) that act is required to control
a risk identified by an assessment
undertaken pursuant to regulation 3 of
the Management of Health and Safety
at Work Regulations 1999 (a) and (ii) the
risk of injury to employees is effectively
controlled by the use of a suitable
appliance, tool or other equipment;
(d) in relation to the safe disposal of
medical sharps that are not designed
for re-use (i) written instructions for
employees and (ii) clearly marked and
secure containers, are located close to
areas where medical sharps are used
at work.
It is essential that sharps are properly
segregated and disposed of on the basis
of their contamination. The lid colour of
the sharps bin relates to how the waste
should be treated and disposed of and
for this industry they would typically be
colour-coded orange.
the producer
of waste will
always be held
responsible for
the safe and legal
disposal of it even
after it has been
passed onto the
waste carrier
collecting it
TOP TIPS FOR
NEEDLESTICK SAFETY:
Always dispose of used sharps
directly into an approved sharps
container
It is essential that your sharps
are segregated and disposed of
correctly based on their medical
contamination.
Where possible, place the sharps
container at the point of use
This avoids the need to walk
anywhere with a needle, which
creates higher risk of an injury
occurring.
Do not re-sheath needles
When the Health & Safety (Sharps
Instruments in Healthcare)
Regulations 2013 came into place,
the recapping of needles was
banned. You should use a safer
sharps device to remove needles
from your syringe.
Do not leave sharps lying around
To reduce the risk to other people,
do not leave sharps lying around
and ensure they are disposed of
immediately.
Report all sharps injuries
immediately
If a sharps injury does occur, you
need to ensure you:-
• encourage bleeding from the
wound;
• dry the wound and cover it with a
waterproof dressing;
• seek urgent medical advice;
• report the injury and ensure all
details are reported.
72

Orange lidded sharps containers –
sharps that are not contaminated with
medicines for disposal by treatment or
incineration such as scalpels, blades
and embalming knives.
When it comes to hazardous and
infectious waste generated in the
funeral services industry, the producer
of waste will always be held responsible
for the safe and legal disposal of it,
even after it has been passed onto the
waste carrier collecting it.
It is essential
that your sharps
are segregated
and disposed of
correctly based
on their medical
contamination
Therefore, it’s important to work with
comprehensively trained sharps waste
disposal experts who will advise on the
correct products that comply with both
the UK and EU legislation and safely
and securely dispose of sharps.
**For healthcare workers worldwide
ABOUT INITIAL MEDICAL
WASTE EXPERTS
Initial Medical is an expert in healthcare
waste management, providing a
complete collection, disposal and
recycling service for hazardous and
non-hazardous waste, such as offensive
waste produced by businesses and
organisations within the UK. The safe
management of healthcare waste is
vital to ensure your activities are not a
risk to human health. Initial Medical’s
healthcare waste services ensure that
all of your waste is stringently handled
in compliance with legislation and in
accordance with Safe Management
of Healthcare Waste best practice
guidelines, providing you with the peace
of mind that you are adhering to current
legislation.
For further information please visit
www.initialmedical.co.uk or Tel 0800
731 0802.
73

BOOK REVIEW
PEACE AT THE LAST:
LEADING FUNERALS WELL
REVIEWED BY DR BRIAN PARSONS
Despite Church of England clergy
conducting a significant number of
funerals each year, there are very few
texts giving guidance to officiants.
Robert Atwell, Bishop of Exeter, seeks
to fill this gap through Peace at the
Last, which is sub-titled Leading
Funerals Well.
74
In thirteen chapters he deals with
the changing landscape of death in
the twentieth century, the funeral
director, the Common Worship funeral
service, music, burials, cremations
and preaching along with several other
areas. An appendix contains, amongst
others items, a glossary, an extract
from Canon Law dealing with funerals,
suitable readings and hymns and a
sample funeral record and invoice.
There is much within the covers that
will delight funeral directors as,
at several points, he stresses the
need for clergy to keep on the side of
funeral directors. He also draws from
the University of Chester’s research
into funerals, which covers funeral
directors and their relationship with
clergy, the opportunities for improving
communications, clergy attitudes and
flexibility. In respect of unusual musical
requests he advises colleagues that ”…
in the end, generosity in the choice of
music is more likely to win us friends
than what may be perceived as cultural
snobbishness. The Church of England
will die of good taste. We need to draw
people through a wider choice of music
not alienate them”.
Bishop Atwell acknowledges that
funerals are only one part of clergy
Ministry but, nevertheless, offers a
model best practice with items such as
the prompt return of telephone calls,
contacting the bereaved as soon as
funeral instructions have been received
and informing the funeral director
about holiday absence and cover
arrangements.
Practical wisdom is not in short supply
in the chapters on Preaching and
Facing our Mortality while, in the one
entitled The Context We Set, he offers
good advice on the production of orders
of service, retiring collections and the
use of audiovisual technology. Bishop
Atwell quotes Canon Law in a few
places and most readers of this review
will be astonished to learn that it is
illegal for a Church of England Minister
to conduct a funeral in a funeral firm’s
private service chapel. He also quotes
the law regarding suicide, although
this needs to be revisited in view of the
recent changes voted upon by Synod.
One issue the Bishop and Synod seem
to have skirted around is at what point
a death can be classified as a suicide.
Surely it’s not until the Coroner’s
conclusion (formerly a verdict) has
been given, which is usually long after
the funeral has been held?
Despite its strengths, there is much
absent from the book and also
inaccuracies. The Bishop starts by
telling us that ”…nationally the number
of Christian funerals is in decline”.
Surely he means Church of England
There is much
within the covers
that will delight
funeral directors
as, at several
points, he stresses
the need for clergy
to keep on the
side of funeral
directors
funerals, judging by the number of
part-sacred/part-secular ceremonies;
although conducted by a wide array of
celebrants/officiants, many still have
a Christian element. Opening the way
for people other than clergy to conduct
funerals cannot be solely attributable
to the 2002 Government report entitled
Civil Registration: Vital Change. This

merely permitted registrars to conduct
funerals, something that comparatively
few continue to do. No mention is
made of the organisations - other
than the Institute of Civil Funerals - to
which celebrant/officiants can align
themselves.
Some developments in how funerals
have changed over the last forty years
are highlighted but, in the absence
of research, it’s only a broad-brush
survey. One aspect that was a feature of
funerals in the years up until the 1960s
– and not mentioned in his survey -
was the ‘public reading time’ at which
clergy conducted a communal funeral
attended by unrelated families. Using
the ‘Order for the Burial of the Dead’
from the Book of Common Prayer there
was not even the opportunity for clergy
to mention the deceased by name. Such
services existed until the 1960s, by which
time the shift from burial to cremation
had taken place and experimental
liturgies had been introduced. In the
chapter on cremation, Bishop Atwell
believes that leaving the coffin in view is
”…unsatisfactory and, if at all possible,
should be resisted”. His argument is
not compelling. Comparing its removal
to that of a burial is mistaken, as the
coffin remains visible after being
lowered into the grave. He also states
that, following a service in church and
committal at the crematorium, the
family will pay twice for an organist. The
use of recorded music will eliminate
any additional cost. Furthermore,
there is no mention of Wesley or other
computer-generated music systems
now widely utilised by crematoria that
have replaced organists.
There are also several errors. The
number of ashes removed from
crematoria is nearly 72% , not 41% ,
the certification of stillbirths is very
muddled, there is no ‘Certificate of
Disposal’, Dignity does not have 1,000
funeral homes listed on its website (it
is 690) and the description that funeral
directors are owned by ‘localised
groups’ is wide of the mark. To say
that ”Independent funeral directors
particularly value their partnership with
local clergy” is disingenuous towards
the staff in other organisations.
Missing from this text are a number of
important areas that relate to clergy
leading funerals. These include the
issue of entitlement to be buried in a
churchyard, the conduct of funerals
for non-viable foetuses, dealing
with family conflict or disputes
over funeral instructions, and the
extent to which clergy can be flexible
when faced with requests that may
compromise the Church of England
funeral service. Much of the recent
changes to the conduct of funerals
would have been better informed by a
more comprehensive and up-to-date
bibliography. Surprisingly absent are
important titles such as Interpreting
Death: Christian Theology and Pastoral
Practice (1997), Death our Future
(2008) and Thomas Long’s Accompany
them with Singing (2009), along with
publications by the National Funerals
College - whose Dead Citizens’ Charter,
along with the Institute of Cemetery
and Crematorium Management’s
Peace at the Last.
Leading Funerals Well
Robert Atwell
Canterbury Press
2014
ISBN 978 1 84825 666 8
£16.99
Charter for the Bereaved - have done
much to elevate the standard of service
provision. There’s also an absence
of any of the numerous informative
websites.
One of the problems attached to writing
about aspects of funeral service is that
one specialist area always ventures in
the territory of another. This is certainly
the case with a text that deals with
the leading of funerals, as the work
of the funeral director along with the
services provided by the cemetery
and crematorium impact directly
on the clergy. This book would have
been strengthened by comments
from colleagues in these fields. These
criticisms should, however, not deter
prospective purchasers, particularly
those new to conducting funerals, as
Bishops Atwell’s book fosters good
practice for what is a key Ministry
undertaken by Church of England
clergy.
75

CHILD
FUNERAL
CHARITY
2015 EDUCATIONAL SEMINAR
Any professional working with
death and bereavement in today’s
UK multicultural society is aware
of the varied religions and cultures
surrounding death and funerals.
Such variety requires increasing
knowledge and understanding.
Since its launch in 2014, the Child
Funeral Charity has become
particularly aware of the need
for funeral professionals to have
increasingly greater knowledge of
a wide range of different religious
and cultural practices.
The charity would like to invite NAFD
members to attend its 2015 Educational
Seminar.
Death and Funerals in different religions
and cultures in the UK
The event will be held on Tuesday 14 July
2015 at 10:00am – 4:00pm at the National
Memorial Arboretum, Croxall Road,
Alrewas, Staffordshire DE13 7AR.
WHO IS TALKING?
Mohammed Omer, Trustee at the
Gardens of Peace Cemetery in
Hainault, East London, and The Revd
Dr Sandra Millar, Head of Projects and
Developments, Archbishops’ Council at
the Church of England. Further speakers
to be confirmed.
WHO IS THIS EVENT FOR?
Any professional working with families
who have lost a child, including
funeral directors, crematoria staff,
nurses, hospital bereavement
officers, bereavement counsellors,
charity staff, registrars, celebrants,
faith representatives, hospice staff,
bereavement midwives and many other
groups.
The delegate fee is £75 and includes
all talks, workshops, certificates
of attendance for CPD purposes,
refreshments, lunch and car parking.
If you haven’t been to the Arboretum
before then take this opportunity to visit!
WWW.CHILDFUNERALCHARITY.ORG.UK
TUESDAY 14 JULY 2015
10:00AM – 4:00PM
76

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77

LETTERS
25 March 2015
Dear Editor
ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT CELEBRANTS
There have been so many changes to the Association of Independent Celebrants that I would ask you to consider publishing
something in your magazine. Here it is.
I have been the President of the Association of Independent Celebrants (AOIC) now for over two years, during which time the face
of the organisation has changed beyond recognition. I am supported by a dedicated team of celebrants who work endlessly on our
committee.
There have been major changes in our Association and I would like to speak about some of the major ones. As each and every
funeral director in the land knows, celebrants are coming out of the woodwork and new ones are being trained and put out into the
market with false promises from training organisations that there is lots of work for them.
We all know that the work for celebrants is limited and funeral directors rely on tried and trusted celebrants who have a reputation
and the experience to provide good services.
We all need to remember that, when a church Minister conducts a funeral service, he or she represents the Ministry. When a
celebrant conducts a service he or she represents the funeral director who has employed him or her. It is, therefore, important that
all celebrants offer the best, and a highly professional service.
The AOIC has pushed the boundaries of the profession in several ways this year.
1. Insurance
We now have not only public liability insurance but we have just negotiated (what the insurance industry describe as a unique policy)
personal indemnity cover of up to £2m. With the exception of the British Humanist Association (BHA), I believe that the AOIC is the
only celebrant organisation to offer this type of insurance.
Why do celebrants need insurance? All funeral directors should be asking for a celebrant’s insurance cover because we live in a
“no win, no fee” society and people are claiming for all sorts of accidents and omissions when things go wrong.
If a celebrant is at fault when an accident occurs at a funeral, the insurance company that covers the funeral director may not wish
to pay out. At the very least the funeral director and their insurance company will get into deep debate over fault and claims.
If a celebrant fails to turn up or makes omissions and the family make a claim of distress for the failing then funeral directors may
find themselves in another legal wrangle.
Having spoken to the insurance experts, I can inform you that the largest claim paid out to a family - where it was claimed that the
funeral was not conducted as the family wanted - was in excess of £9.5k plus legal costs which, of course, could have doubled the
amount paid to the family.
It, therefore, makes sense for any funeral director to make sure that any Minister they employ is covered by good, valid and
comprehensive insurance. All AOIC members are instructed to provide copies of insurance to funeral directors.
2. Training
Up to this last year the AOIC ran a training programme. This has now been terminated and we are now working in partnership
with Civil Ceremonies Ltd which is run by Anne Barber. Anne is a market leader in celebrant training and offers courses across the
spectrum of the industry.
The AOIC registers trainees but they are instructed not to conduct ceremonies until they have been on the official course. They are
then allocated a mentor and listed as ‘Trainee Celebrants’ on the AOIC website. When they have successfully completed the Civil
Ceremonies course they are upgraded to full members and receive full entitlements.
3. Supporting the NAFD
We have made it our policy to support the NAFD at all its meetings and, where I cannot be available, I will be represented by one of
our members. I actively encourage all our members to support NAFD events and Area Federation meetings.
4. Membership of the National Council for Palliative Care (NCPC), Dying Matters and the Child Funeral Charity
During the last year we have forged close links with all these organisations and openly encourage our members to support each
organisation. I recently met with Claire Henry, CEO of NCPC, and together we are working to improve end-of-life care and planning
which, of course, includes planning for a funeral.
In conclusion, may I thank all NAFD members who support members of the AOIC by using their services. By working together I am
sure that we can work through the many changes that we both face in the future.
I am available through the AOIC website (www.independentcelebrants.com), by email at president@independentcelebrants.com
or by phone on 07783 323324. I welcome any conversation that may improve the industry and the professional manner in which we
all do business.
Philip Wm Spicksley, President of the Association of Independent Celebrants
78

NEW CHANNEL 4 DOCUMENTARY
– WOULD YOU LIKE TO FEATURE?
Dragonfly TV are making a new Channel 4 documentary about funerals ’in the
UK. Dragonfly's programmes such as One Born Every Minute have a reputation
for dealing with important and often sensitive subject matters, with warmth and
integrity.
This film will aim to capture the diversity of funerals and end of life plans in the UK
with a focus on how some people are choosing to take control of this final send off
in celebratory and unique ways.
As part of this documentary we are looking to film with families who are planning
remarkable funerals and people who are making unique plans for themselves.
Is it important that you or your loved one goes out in style?
Perhaps you want to ease the burden on loved ones by putting plans in place?
If you would like to chat please contact becky.casey@dragonfly.tv or call
07828 093 986.
Cartmell & Barlow Ltd
Cartmell &
Quality since 1878
Manufacturers of quality traditional and contemporary caskets and coffins
A historical tradition of high quality since Barlow Ltd
Manufacturers of of quality traditional and and contemporary caskets and and coffins
A historical tradition of high quality since 1878
Quality made Caskets
We are also able to offer a complete
bespoke design service to our clients to
create a unique coffin, specifically for
the individual, we believe in providing
each and every family with the choice of
a high quality finished product.
79

NAFD DIARY
14 NAFD Executive meeting
14-17
2015
MAY
NAFD CONFERENCE 2015
(at Dalmahoy Marriott Hotel & Country Club, Edinburgh)
JUNE
02 NAFD Board of Examiners meeting
12-14 National Funeral Exhibition
06-08
JULY
International Cremation & Burial Conference and Exhibition 2015
(at the Holiday Inn, Stratford-Upon-Avon)
All invitations for the National
President to attend a social function,
business meeting, branch opening,
etc, should only be directed to Su
Lewis at National Office (by post,
e-mail at su@nafd.org.uk or fax on
0121 711 1351) and not sent direct to
the President.
Any social functions or business
meetings you wish to be included
in the NAFD Diary for which the
President is not expected to attend
should also be forwarded to Su
Lewis.
23 NAFD Committee for Professional Standards meeting
12
SEPTEMBER
NAFD Bournemouth & District Association of Funeral Directors’
(at Bournemouth Highcliffe Marriott Hotel)
16-17
NAFD Diploma in Funeral Arranging & Administration and NAFD
Diploma in Funeral Directing examinations
29-30 Funeral Times trade show Ireland 2015 at Citywest, Dublin.
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FUNERAL DIRECTORS
The Annual General Meeting of the Association will take place at 10:30am on
Friday 15 May 2015 at the Marriott Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club, Kirknewton, near Edinburgh
80

FLEET NEWS
NEW MERCEDES FOR
MCGOUGH & SONS
C McGough & Sons has been serving
communities in Stoke-on-Trent for over
80 years.
Tim and his family purchased their first
of many Coleman Milne Saab fleets
from in 2001.
In April of this year, director Tim
McGough accepted delivery of his
first Mercedes fleet of Coleman Milne
E-Class hearse and limousine in solid
black with black leather.
L-R: taking delivery of their Mercedes are Allan Pyatt (funeral director),
Tim McGough (director) and Paul McGough (Tim’s father, now retired)
A FURTHER WILCOX HEARSE FOR CHARLES
STEPHENS OF BIRKENHEAD
Charles Stephens (Birkenhead) Ltd
Funeral Directors has just taken
delivery of a further new all-aluminium
Jaguar hearse.
Established in 1896 the business,
which has six funeral homes, has been
serving the families of Birkenhead and
surrounding areas for almost 120 years.
The Managing Director of the company
is Gemma Stephens, who is the fourth
generation of the family business.
Gemma’s father, Jeremy, continues to
play a major role as a consultant.
The all-aluminium Jaguar hearse
comes with a high specification which
includes a quiet and smooth 6-cCylinder
3.0 diesel engine, air suspension,
satellite navigation, Bluetooth ® handsfree
phone system, luxury leather
interior, heated seats and alloy wheels.
Wilcox & Co (Limousines) Ltd would
like to thank Gemma and Jeremy for
their continued business and wish them
every success with their new vehicle.
GREENWOOD & SONS COLLECT NEW JAGUAR TO
JOIN FIRE ENGINE COLLECTION
Pictured is Alan Greenwood of Alan
Greenwood & Sons Funeral Director’s
new aluminium Jaguar hearse to
compliment his current fleet.
In the background is a Dennis F2 Pump
Escape built in 1949. A collector of fire
engines, Alan bought this fire engine in
1985 and this vehicle carried the coffin
of his first funeral in 1987.
In 1997 Alan bought his first fleet from
Peter Wilcox of Wilcox Limousines
and has now been dealing with Louis
Wilcox, Peter’s son, for some years.
All Alan’s twenty funeral vehicles carry
the ADG plates, which mark him out in
the Surrey area.
Wilcox Limousines would like to
thank Alan for his continued support
and additional order of replacement
Mercedes vehicles.
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WILCOX JAGUAR FLEET FOR HAROLD LEESE FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Wilcox Limousines was proud to deliver
a new fleet of five Jaguar vehicles to
Harold H Leese (A Boulton & Sons)
Funeral Directors.
When the firm of funeral directors,
which has been serving families of
North Staffordshire and South Cheshire
for nearly 100 years, wanted to update
its fleet, it turned to Wilcox Limousines,
the only provider of Jaguar-approved
funeral vehicles in the UK.
The Jaguars, renowned for their high
specification and exceptional British
design, come with satellite navigation,
a Bluetooth hands-free phone system,
air suspension, luxury leather interior
and climate control. These high
quality features all serve to provide
local families with the style, comfort
and reassurance at the funeral of their
loved ones.
Nigel Boulton, funeral director at Harold
H Leese, said: “We were delighted to
welcome the new vehicles to our fleet
and were impressed with the service
and quality that Wilcox provided. As a
growing firm, it is important to us that
we provide a reliable and stylish fleet to
our valued customers.”
Paul Wilcox, CEO at Wilcox Limousines,
stated: “As a family run, independent
firm, we understand the requirements
of funeral directors like Harold H Leese
and worked to provide them with the
highest standard of vehicles. We would
like to thank Ann, Mark and Nigel for
choosing Jaguars for their new fleet
and wish them every success for the
future.”
BUSINESS WANTED / FOR SALE
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CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY
CLASSIFIED
DIRECTORY
ADVERTISING INFUNERAL DIRECTOR MONTHLY
For details on rates, publication dates etc please contact
Jo Asher, Sales Manager
Tel: +44 (0)1525 370013
Fax: + 44 (0)1525 382487
EMail: jo@impact-now.co.uk
www.impact-now.co.uk
BUSINESS WANTED / FOR SALE
Considering selling your business?
Would like a view on valuation and next steps?
Received an offer and want a view on how good it is?
Thinking of setting up on your own and need advice?
Guy Turner
If you would like to contact me in complete
confidence to discuss your business or plans,
please call on 07917 221497
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BUSINESS WANTED / FOR SALE
DECORATIVE LIGHTING
REPATRIATION
LED church candles with a realistic
flickering wick.
A safe alternative to burning
candles and perfect for memorable
occasions.
Visit our NFE stand or www.innolite.co.uk
Be wise when you advertise
Look for the ABC stamp of trust. An ABC certificate provides
An shows
accurate, independently verified circulation figures giving you
confidence in your advertising investment.
www.abc.org.uk
84

SITUATIONS VACANT
Family-run independent Funeral Director celebrating 160th year of trading seeks
Funeral
Operations
Supervisor
To apply, please send your CV and
a handwritten covering letter,
outlining your suitability for the
role and current salary package to:
Mrs A Pattenden,
Manager, Freeman Brothers,
9 North Parade, Horsham,
West Sussex RH12 2BP
The closing date is Friday 22nd
May with interviews to be held the
following week. For a confidential
discussion, please email
abi@freemanbrothers.co.uk
in the first instance.
No enquiries by telephone please.
Freeman Brothers has been based at the same West Sussex premises since 1855 and
has an excellent record of service and care to the local community. We aim to offer the
highest levels of professionalism and are seeking someone who can uphold these
standards and maintain our excellent reputation. We have a team of twenty-three
staff working from three branches and are the main supplier of funeral services to the
market town of Horsham and the surrounding areas.
Key duties include: conducting funerals, with all the responsibilities this entails;
allocating staff to their duties and responding to changes in circumstances at short
notice; the ordering of stock, supplies etc. to agreed levels in a proactive and timely
fashion; ensuring vehicles and premises are maintained as required; training of new
staff including adherence to Health and Safety requirements and all company policies
and procedures; offering recommendations for updates and alterations to these; and,
above all, ensuring all necessary commitments and activities are carried out in a timely
and appropriate fashion with the care and dignity of the Deceased as the utmost
priority. As with all of our employees you will be required to carry out any duty within
your capability.
The ideal candidate will be a strong communicator with previous staff supervisory
experience who can problem solve, respond quickly to changing circumstances, and
anticipate the needs of the business in both the short and long term. The ability to
think clearly and prioritise tasks is essential, as is the need to be well organised and
proactive. You must be of smart appearance, sensitive to the needs of our bereaved
customers and be able to work in a small team as well as on your own initiative. A full
driving license is a necessity and a funeral qualification would be of an advantage
although is not compulsory. Our preferred candidate will be sufficiently local to enable
taking a place on the on call out of hours rota one week in four, but this is subject to
negotiation.
In return for this we offer a generous remuneration package including contributory
pension scheme and excellent holiday allowance. More importantly, however, will be
the satisfaction which comes with playing a key part in a forward-looking and highly
respected company, and the ability to make a real difference to our clients at their time
of need.
85

Are you thinking of selling your
funeral business?
Dignity would like to talk to you if you
are thinking of selling your business.
The decision to sell your business is a huge
one and something you will only do once.
So why choose Dignity?
1. We are funeral people. It’s all we do. We
are obsessive about the standard of service
we offer the families we serve and over 98%
of clients that respond to our survey say they
would recommend us to family or friends.
2. You will deal directly with a main board director
who has complete authority to agree all terms.
In other words you will be dealing principal
to principal. The result is a quick and simple
transaction.
3. We have acquired more family funeral
businesses in the UK in the last ten years
than anyone else. A significant number
have been very well known businesses
and we will be glad to give you references
so that you can talk to people who have
dealt with us. They will tell you that we are
straight forward to deal with, will continue
to invest in your business and that we keep
our promises.
4. We have cash immediately available without
recourse to third parties.
5. We have a national presence and are able to
acquire businesses in nearly all parts of the UK.
Please call Andrew Davies, Operations
Director or Mike McCollum, Chief Executive.
Between us we have over 50 year’s funeral
experience and will be delighted to deal
with you in the strictest confidence without
any obligation.
Contact Mike McCollum, Chief Executive or Andrew Davies
Operations Director: Dignity plc, 4 King Edwards Court
King Edwards Square, Sutton Coldfield B73 6AP
Email: mike.mccollum@dignityuk.co.uk |
andrew.davies@dignityuk.co.uk
Telephone: 0121 354 1557 | www.dignityfunerals.co.uk
86

Superior quality Superior support Superior loyalty
NFE 2015 12th – 14th June
Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire
Visit us at stand C3 & C3a
Tel 0118 971 4444
For the latest information visit www.superioruk.com
10 Fronds Park, Frouds Lane, Aldermaston, Reading RG7 4LH
Southern Area and HQ
Northern Area
Superior UK
Kevin Smith
Richard Lockwood
Head Office
07976 297 471
07968 195 722
0118 971 4444
kevin.smith@superioruk.com
richard.lockwood@superioruk.com
sales@superioruk.com
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