The death of someone we love or are close to is never an easy thing to come to terms with. A personally meaningful funeral or memorial service, which truly honours the deceased, can help the grief process, forming a focus for memories and emotions, and allowing those who are left behind to begin to say goodbye.

I meet with the bereaved following a death, to help them to become clear about what kind of funeral or memorial is appropriate, taking into account both the desires of the deceased and the needs of the bereaved. Where possible and appropriate, I encourage family members and friends to write and read the eulogy and to be involved in other aspects of the funeral, to make it truly personal, and a real reflection and celebration of their loved one's life.

I can also assist individuals with writing a pre-funeral plan. This is not a legally binding document but reflects the wishes of the individual for their funeral and disposition of their remains. People often choose this option to avoid unnecessary worry for their families after death, or if they have particular desires for their funeral.

"I have had my invitation to this world's feast, and thus my life has been blessed.
My eyes have seen and my ears have heard.
It was my part at this feast to play upon my instrument,
and I have done all I could."
Rabindranath Tagore

Some questions it may be useful to consider when planning a funeral are:-

• Did the deceased leave any instructions regarding their funeral? (This may be in their will or with their solicitor.)
• Is a cremation or a burial planned? If a burial, will this be at a cemetery, in a woodland burial site or elsewhere?
• Did the deceased have any strong religious or other beliefs?
• What were their favourite pieces of music, poetry or religious texts?
• Are there any charities or causes that they particularly supported to which people can give donations in their memory?
• Do you want to include time for people to share their memories of the person who has died, either in the funeral itself or at a gathering?

Further Information
The Office of Fair Trading has issued guidelines for funerals, to ensure the public know what their rights are (click on the link at the beginning of this sentence then use the link on the right of the page that comes up).

Excellent information on natural death and green burials specific to Scotland, including a detailed information pack, can be obtained from: Another Way, 16 Midtown, Dalry, Castle Douglas, Dumfries & Galloway.

The LifeRites Group is another organisation which offers useful information.

More information is available in the Links section of this website.