Affordable package to “empower families”
West Lothian funeral director Jim Brodie has won support from Independents and corporate providers alike for a new affordable funeral package, soon to be offered to families across West Lothian.
The Respectful Funeral package, based on the draft definition of a simple funeral drawn up by the Scottish Government, will launch in April 2019 at a cost of £1,550. The new package will include support with certification and death registration, transportation and viewing of the deceased, provision of a simple coffin and a hearse, and the opportunity to hold a service, either at the graveside or in the funeral director’s parlour.
The lead funeral director for the project, Jim Brodie of Brodies Funeral Services, said: “Every human being deserves a dignified, respectful send-off, and all bereaved families need appropriate closure and time to grieve. That is why I am working with West Lothian Council and funeral directors across the authority to launch a new Respectful Funeral package.
“We know that poverty is forcing the hand of families across the country, stripping them of choice and, often, a sense of dignity. This new package will enhance choice, empower families and offer a dignified alternative to public health funerals.”
West Lothian Council has endorsed the package and council officials will now support funeral directors across the authority to promote the new service.
Tags: affordable, Brodies Funeral Services, Jim Brodie, package, regulation, Scotland, West Lothian