Co-op launches Covid-19 funeral packages amid lockdown

The Co-op has launched a range of services and packages for mourners unable to attend funerals due to the coronavirus lockdown.

With churches and crematoriums closed to the public during the pandemic, and a spike in deaths, funeral directors are trying to cope with the new rules.

The Co-op said it would be offering cortege services to pass by the late person’s favourite place, or pass the family home to allow those isolating a chance to pay their last respects.

The firm added it has also become the first national funeral provider to introduce a direct burial service, which does not have an attended service.

Sam Tyrer, managing director for Co-op Funeralcare, said: “We are arranging funerals in a way we would never have thought possible just weeks ago so that bereaved families can continue to honour their loved ones in a unique and beautiful way and say their best possible goodbyes.

“Whilst communities are not able to come together as they usually would to pay their respects, we have made sure that there are other ways for those impacted to be part of their loved one’s final journey.”

Social distancing restrictions have meant floral tributes for funerals have hard to find.

In response to this, the Co-op has partnered with Flowerbx to ensure it is able to continue to provide families with access to a range of fresh floral tributes on all funerals nationwide.

The changes come as the Co-op launched a new Hardship Fund, to provide families of keyworkers who have died due to Covid-19 and who are in financial hardship, with a £250 contribution towards funeral costs.

The company is also lining up remembrance services for future dates once the lockdown is lifted, with other ideas under consideration.