You will not need to stay two metres apart at a funeral from people you do not live with and venues are not required to follow social distancing rules. However, social distancing and limiting close contact can help reduce the risk of catching or passing on COVID-19.

Although face coverings are no longer legally required, we ask that they are worn in the funeral home. The local crematoria and burial ground chapels and places of worship also request that face coverings are still worn.

Previous restrictions on singing, chanting and dancing no longer apply although some venues may request that masks are still worn which we will be able to advise on.

The NAFD states: people who are self-isolating or who are in quarantine following international travel may be present where a legal exemption applies. Keeping a distance of 2 metres is strongly advised for those attending a funeral during their self-isolation or quarantine period following international travel.

The time between death and the funeral will vary according to a family’s needs, available times at the venue, minister, or celebrant as well as other considerations. The process for registering a death changed under the Coronavirus Act, and now we can assist and submit documentation digitally. This makes the process quicker and easier.

The time between the death and a funeral will also be dependent on the cause of death and whether the death is referred to the coroner. Coroner’s procedures remain in place for sudden or unexpected deaths and where something other than COVID-19 is the cause of death.

Yes, we have protective screens in all our vehicles. All our limousines can seat 6 people and masks must be worn by all those travelling. All members of Rosedale will be wearing a mask as well.

Yes, you will be able to visit your loved one. If they died from Covid-19 we may need to take precautions such as the use of a transparent screen. We will always make you aware of the options available to you.

Usually we can fulfil the requirements of a funeral plan. If things change, for example, contact any of our branches to discuss whether the restrictions have impacted on a funeral plan.

We are still running our bereavement support groups (click here for more information), and have lots of other helpful information which can be found by clicking here. We have also partnered with Grief Chat where you can talk to a specially trained counsellor who will listen, explore how grief is affecting you and help you find any additional support you may need. It is a completely free service and operates from 9am to 9pm Monday to Friday, and via email outside these hours.

We are more than willing to support families to organise a memorial service or celebration of life service at a later date, perhaps on a special date such as a birthday or anniversary. This may well be an ideal opportunity to carry out any wishes that the deceased may have left for their funeral arrangements and to unite family and friends. Please talk to a member of our team about this and they can offer advice and any information.