In today’s Times (27 November 2023), there is a report, following the release of research by the think tank Theos, speculating that only half of people today say they want a funeral for themselves. The NAFD believes there is an important perspective missing from the Theo research: that of the bereaved family and friends of the person who has died.
Funerals are as much (if not more) for the living as for the dead, and research has consistently demonstrated that people can hold an inconsistent view: even if they don’t want a #funeral for themselves, they would want to be able to arrange one for someone they loved.
Funerals are a chance to say goodbye and the coming together of a community to support those who are grieving; we know from the pandemic restrictions just how devastating it can be when this is taken away.
That’s why it is vitally important that there are good conversations amongst families; funeral plans should include more than just the wishes of the person who is going to die, they should also reflect the needs of the people who will miss them when they are gone.
Read the article here.