Working more closely together
Ties between SAIF and plan provider Golden Charter have been strengthened further in a move that will improve the service provided to independent funeral directors.
The latest move means funeral directors can effectively join SAIF and offer Golden Charter plans with the benefit of one contact point.
The move can offer an efficient service, given SAIF represents independent funeral directors and Golden Charter is owned by independent funeral directors through the SAIFCharter association.
Under the new streamlined system, Golden Charter Business Development Managers (BDMs) will contact applicants wishing to offer Golden Charter plans while at the same time completing their SAIF membership with a simplified electronic process.
Using a secure application (Workmobile) the completed forms are sent electronically in real time back to the SAIF Business Centre, complying with the new GDPR regulations.
Aldwell Bosanquet is one of Golden Charter’s BDMs. He explained why it is important for the two organisations to work together in this way. “It places us both in a position of strength and demonstrates unity in what is seen to be a challenging time for the independent funeral director.”
Clients wanting to sign up with Golden Charter have to be a member of one of two trade bodies that the organisation recognises – SAIF or the NAFD. Aldwell added: “So why not partner with the option that provides true support for the independent funeral director and the range of benefits on offer?
“The journey for funeral homes wishing to work with Golden Charter starts with that trade body membership. By expediting this process, our client can come on board much quicker and start to service their customers’ needs with a Golden Charter funeral plan sooner.
“We personally believe the new relationship with SAIF will create a better understanding of Golden Charter and the support we provide to our clients offering funeral plans with a best-in-practice approach.”
He added: “The benefits of working with Golden Charter and the importance of joining SAIF outweigh any costs for the business. Our system provides live updates and allows clear visibility of where new members are within the process.
“We have a working relationship built upon trust and a grounded understanding of what both enterprises offer and how we benefit one another. New funeral directors can now access support from SAIF much sooner and they have a fantastic support network offering a Golden Charter funeral plan.”
Terry Tennens, Chief Executive of SAIF, said: “SAIF is an effective trade association that exclusively represents independent funeral directors across the islands of the UK.
“We continue to be the voice of the independent to the parliaments across the UK, bringing generations of expertise to the funeral industry combining that unique blend of professionalism, member support services, agility to respond and a reputation that has credibility in the corridors of influence.
“We are delighted to partner with Golden Charter’s Business Development Managers whose customer service approach and attention to detail forge a strong alliance for the independent sector in the face of so much change. The more we are together, the stronger we shall be.”
If you want to know more about Golden Charter Funeral Plans and the potential benefits to your business, please contact your relevant BDM.
Tags: Aldwell Bosanquet, BDM, Business Development Manager, Claire Day, funeral directors, funeral plans, Golden Charter, independent, Rosie Kinley, SAIF, Steve Bennett, Workmobile