One of the most important decisions to make when planning a funeral is choosing between burial and cremation. The choice for some may be straightforward, but for others, this decision can feel overwhelming. Understanding the differences between burial and cremation can help you make a decision that feels right for you or reflects the wishes […]
In today’s society, our lives extend far beyond physical spaces, with our online presence being integral to how we communicate, work, and express ourselves. When someone passes, these online presences remain active, visible, and sometimes unmanaged, which can create both emotional and practical challenges for those left behind. From social media pages to email accounts […]
Darryl Smith, our General Manager of Funerals has dedicated over 42 years in the funeral profession. He has previously served as National President for the Co-operative Funeral Service Managers Association and has been an active member of many National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) local associations, including a term as the President of the Midlands Area Federation from 2012 to 2014. Darryl joined the NAFD Executive in 2021 and currently serves on the Membership Committee. He is currently the Acting President of the NAFD, and we’re proud to share that he will become the official President from September 2025 to September 2026.
A study conducted by a UK provider of pre-paid funeral plans has revealed that 79% of respondents have friends/family that they would trust to carry out their will and act as their Power of Attorney (PoA) to handle their affairs, finances and arrangements after their death. Research commissioned by Ecclesiastical Planning Services has shown that […]
Losing a loved one is never easy, but when someone passes away far from home, it can add an extra layer of emotional and logistical challenges. Repatriation – the process of bringing someone back to home after they have passed – can feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with all of the legal requirements and transportation […]
Mother’s Day is often a time of celebration, filled with flowers, cards, and precious moments. But for mothers like Arlo’s mum, whose arms ache with emptiness, this day carries a different weight. It becomes a day of quiet reflection, where love and grief intertwine — honouring a bond that transcends time. Our Funeral Director, Sam, […]
For those grieving, Valentines Day could be an especially difficult time. To help you through, we’ve gathered five simple ways to honour and remember a loved one this Valentine’s Day. 1. Leave flowers at their grave One traditional way to remember a loved one is by leaving flowers at their grave, by their ashes, or […]
People who attended funerals arranged by Coventry-based Heart of England Co-operative Society in 2024 raised almost £300,000 for worthy causes in memory of lost loved ones. Darryl Smith, general manager of the Society’s funeral division, revealed that 212 organisations benefited through families requesting donations in lieu of flowers. The independent co-operative partnered with Much Loved, […]
As we become more aware of the effects of our actions on the environment, many people are taking to lessen their carbon footprint by making more sustainable choices throughout their lifetime. For many, this includes choosing an environmentally friendly funeral. Understandably, the effects of traditional cremations and burials on the environment may typically come as […]
