Grieving families who lose their children will receive up to £2,000 to help cover funeral costs, as part of a new government scheme.
Announced on 30 June, the Children’s Funeral Fund aims to reduce the financial burden for families across England by reimbursing burial authorities, cremation authorities and funeral directors directly.
Central England Co-operative Funeralcare has welcomed the initiative, which will come into effect on 23 July. The fund will be available regardless of the family’s income, and will also include a contribution towards the cost of a coffin.
Kevin Crute, head of funerals at Central England, said: “Central England Co-op Funeralcare welcomes the announcement that burial fees will be waived for children under the age of 18 as it is a great step in the right direction to ensure as many parents who want financial support during their time of need can get it.
“Central England Co-op Funeralcare has long been a leader in offering free funerals for children through our Rainbow Service, something we are extremely proud of and know makes a real difference to families who have gone through the loss of a child.
“It allows us to provide complimentary support for parents who have lost a child from 17 years and under and allows parents to focus their mind on their child and their memories of them, rather than having to worry about finances.”
Through the Rainbow Service, families do not have to pay for the funeral service but are also not restricted, as the service still offers the family choice and the ability to personalise the funeral they want for their child.
Central England Co-operative Funeralcare was the first funeral director in the country to offer this service. The society’s funeral business consists of over 120 funeral homes across 16 counties, nine florists, masonry production and administration, Bretby Crematorium and Terry Smiths coffin factory.
