Packed room for NAFD Scotland AGM and members’ meeting
Members of NAFD Scotland gathered in Edinburgh in March to welcome in a new Scotland President and hear about the rollout of a consultation about how the NAFD will best serve its members in a new regulatory landscape.
A packed room and members online welcomed Mark Shaw, from Mark Shaw Funeral Services in Aberdeen, as the new President in Scotland, replacing Andrew Brown, from Co-op Funeralcare, who had held the post for three years. Tim Purves, from William Purves Funeral Directors, was installed as Vice-President and Fiona Kenny, who has been Secretary for NAFD in Scotland for an astonishing 37 years, stood down amid thanks, flowers and gifts from everyone in attendance, to be replaced by Michelle Cuthell, from Thomas Cuthell & Sons.
The AGM and members’ meeting was also attended by new NAFD Chief Executive Officer Andrew Judd and National President John Adams.
Members heard that, after six months of consultation with the Scotland Executive on how the Association will provide best value to members in a new regulatory landscape in the country, following the impending implementation of regulation and licensing, a wider consultation seeking the views of all members in Scotland will be rolled out shortly.
The meeting heard an update from the Scottish Government about where they currently stand on licensing, regulation, the Code of Practice and the public consultation over water cremation, while good points were made during a wider discussion on the Code of Practice, including how it affects cross-border activity, what constitutes “first offices” and refrigeration. Mr Judd and Mr Adams reflected on their periods as CEO and National President, Mr Adams talking about his successful campaign to promote bereavement teaching in schools and Mr Judd expressing how important it is that the Association engages with members locally and nationally – and is reinvigorated by members’ involvement and participation.
Mr Judd told the meeting: “We are an Association that belongs to you, our members, and it is important that you tell us how we can offer best value to you. It is important that you tell us your views.”
Want to join the NAFD?
If you’re not a member and want to join and enjoy many member benefits, including our award winning FDM magazine, then find out more about the benefits of membership.
As the largest representative body for UK funeral firms, we provide advice, advocacy, education and support to help funeral professionals meet the highest professional standards and provides bereaved people with reassurance that they are choosing a compassionate and experienced funeral director they can trust.
Expand your knowledge with our sector leading education programmes
We are proud to offer sector leading education programmes in all aspects of the funeral profession.
Whether you are looking to embark on a new career or are already employed in the funeral service, we offer a range of training which are designed to expand the knowledge of individuals working in all aspects of the profession by inspiring confidence and excellence in their work to care for bereaved families and those who have died.
Find out more on the NAFD Education website.