Body care

Our excellent mortuary facilities allow us to employ gentle, non-intrusive, natural body care techniques. 

We will keep your person at the modern funeral centre, or locally, and will not move them until the funeral day.

We can prepare for visits in our at-rest room. Essential oils and candles can bring a calming atmosphere. 

You might direct us to dress your person ahead of their funeral or to tuck them in with a favourite blanket. 

Being involved

You may wish to participate in a peaceful cleansing ritual, or helping us to tuck them in on the day.

There might be something you want to say, or some music to listen to.

You might be aware that some time spent with the physical body may help you to begin to process what has happened. 

You might deliver a letter, or cards from grandchildren, to be placed by your person’s heart, or come and light a candle to guide their way. 

You may feel that you would like to come and visit to say a goodbye to the person who has died. We can make our at-rest room comfortable for your visit. You may come to visit your person laid out as if in a bed, or they might be in their coffin. 

It is worth considering spending time with your person as soon as you can. You can expect a body to change over time after death. Visiting is entirely optional. We will always describe in detail what to expect while doing our best to support your decision. 

You could have a relaxed pre-funeral gathering in the ceremony room at the funeral modern centre, or even choose to hold the whole funeral there. 

We work with a small number of families at a time, so most visiting requests can be accommodated. 

Vigils and bespoke rituals

So much is possible: one final toast, a practice readthrough of a personal tribute, a gathering of ‘the clan’, getting the band back together, a rousing chorus.

We have had families gather around an open coffin in African song. We have facilitated specific cultural rituals for those of Islamic and Hindu faith that include washing the body.

We are open to learning about any tradition and able to help you design your own ritual.