When you didn't get a chance to say good-bye properly.

The Images of Captain Sir Tom Moore's funeral where only a handful of people were allowed to be present at the crematorium is a solemn reminder that so many people are being denied the chance to attend the funeral of a loved one due to lock-down restrictions.

The last year has seen health advisors speak of the necessity of limiting the numbers at Funeral Services, Torbay Crematorium allow 20 people, socially distanced to be in the Chapel. In some parts of the country it has been fewer, and many people have been advised not to attend a funeral at all. However NHS Mental Health Specialists have recently reported that not being allowed an outlet for sorrow has caused a surge in grief related depression, and even a condition known as complicated grief and anxiety disorder

There is also the other consideration that some people do not wish to have a funeral service at all, and many are simply not able to afford the £8000., that it can cost to have a full funeral for their loved ones. There has been a huge increase in both unattended funerals, and simple services. However some people are still uncomfortable that a significant life has not been marked with some sort of ceremony, and words said about a much loved person. Leaving them feeling uneasy that they can't move on and that something is missing.

It is hoped that all restrictions on funerals will be lifted no later than the 21st of June

The great majority of people breathed a sigh of relief when we heard that the winter of 20/21 would hopefully be the last lockdown in the United Kingdom of the Covid-19 Pandemic. Hopefully this will mark a time of celebration, and also an opportunity to come together and celebrate the life of a loved one who sadly has not made it through.

Memorial Services - in South Devon

Thank-fully there will also be an opportunity for Celebration of Life and Memorial Services to take place again. Richard Sanders is a local Community Pastor and Celebrant in South Devon who is supporting people who may want to plan a special ceremony to remember their loved ones with all their friends and family. He is an experienced celebrant an ordained pastor.

Richard commented that many people like to choose their own music, poetry have musicians or family members reading tributes at a service and this just makes it even more special. For more than 20 years he's been looking after bereaved families and creating individualised ceremonies, although he is more than comfortable writing the Eulogy. He can also help to advise on suitable locations to fit all pockets, there are so many beautiful locations around Devon, and opportunities to have a lovely meaningful send off.

Richard Sanders works throughout South Devon Offering beautifully crafted Celebration of Life and Memorial Services - www.rjsanders.co.uk or 07527771914 (for a free no obligation chat)

Fully qualified bereavement and moving on therapist.

Author

Richard Sanders is a Civil Celebrant and Community Pastor working in Torbay - South Devon - with a specialism in ceremony, funerals, weddings, baby namings, pastoral work including bereavement counselling, and Christian Counselling.

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