As we head into July, the funeral world is looking more like its old self though there is still a way to go, and things change week by week.
Face to Face: we are now holding socially-distanced arrangement meetings in our office; the option remains to use Zoom or the phone if family members are vulnerable or shielding. We are always pleased to come to your house if you feel it safe. We can wear masks if you prefer, though most people appear relaxed about this, feeling it is important to see one another’s faces.
Crematoria: Westerleigh are increasing to 30 in their larger (Waterside) chapel and staying at 15 in the smaller (Woodland) chapel. Cheltenham will be allowing 30 from 6th July and Gloucester 20. LIve-streaming remains a popular option for many families.
Churches: some are taking services and all are making their own decision regarding numbers. Larger churches (Painswick for example) are allowing 20 people with larger numbers – up to 30 under current guidelines – being allowed for a graveside service.
Venues: That venues have been closed has been one of the most difficult aspects to deal with in recent months. While small funerals offer real intimacy, it has been very hard for families to go their separate ways after sharing the experience of the service. Some have made unofficial use of the grounds at the crematorium to walk together, or sit and chat if the weather allows. But from 4th July with the opening of pubs and restaurants this could be about to change. Westerleigh’s onsite facility, for example, will be reopening on 13th July.
Family Tree are deeply grateful to the families who have worked so closely with us in recent months to make their funeral arrangements so very excellent. We are highly vigilant of the situation and are hugely relieved that our area has not been as badly affected by the virus as many other towns and cities. As always, we are available 24 hours a day, every day, to walk alongside you if you find yourself needing to arrange a funeral for a loved one, or to talk through your own ideas for yours.
If you would like to talk to us, please call 01453 767 769 any time of the day or night.
Our email address is contact@familytreefunerals.co.uk and we will respond as soon as we can.
Should you want to meet with us in person, this is still possible by appointment only. Please call 01453 767 769
