Posting of funeral notices stops under new advice

Funeral directors have been asked to cease publicising day and time of funerals under new Scottish Government advice.

Relatives are also asked not to reveal details “on social media or otherwise, to help reduce the risk of large numbers attending.”

This new approach rules are a cultural shock for numerous close-knit communities across Scotland including in the Western Isles where traditionally large funeral services have been heavily curtailed over the past year.

Even the age old custom of posting death notices in island shops will now cease temporarily.

Alasdair Macrae, of Stornoway funeral directors Archibald Macrae, expressed regret in having to advise “further measures we have to undertake in order to suppress the spread of coronavirus in our community.”

He added: “With the family’s permission, I will send notices to the usual outlets informing of an interment once it has taken place, in order that those in the wider community who may wish to express their sympathies to the family can do so safely.”

In person attendance at funerals is strictly limited to 20 people. No one showing symptoms of Covid-19 or anyone who is self-isolating, should attend.

The Scotland-wide guidance against posting funeral notices follows an “increasing number of reports that funeral services are taking place with numbers in excess of the maximum of 20 people.

“Funeral directors are requested not to advertise the date and time of the funeral.

“Funeral directors may also respectfully ask families not to publish details of the funeral service on social media or otherwise, to help reduce the risk of large numbers attending.”

The Scottish Government said: “We understand that these conversations may be difficult; families are bereaved and they may have many family members and friends who wish to attend to pay their respects.”

The new guidance highlights: “We understand that funerals are extremely important events and that is why funeral services are not caught by the general restrictions on gatherings.

“However, funerals are highly emotional and incredibly difficult events in our lifetimes. They are unique and intimate.

“Every funeral celebrates and commemorates a life lived and a loved one no longer with us.

“Because of this, it is more likely that vital public health measures to help mitigate or break the chain of transmission of Covid-19, such as physical distancing, will be forgotten.

“This is completely understandable at a time of grief, when people need the support of their close family and friends.”

Posting of funeral notices stops under new advice

11 February 2021