What is a home funeral?

A home funeral is an important part of after-death care for the bereaved and the deceased.

Since the early 19th Century what was once accepted practice by families is now largely the responsibility of funeral directors. However, as we move into a more spiritual time people are now wanting to take back some of those responsibilities which may include:

• Preparing the body for burial or cremation (bathing, dressing, anointing, shrouding)

• Planning and carrying out after-death rituals or ceremonies such as laying out the deceased for visitation.

• Transporting the deceased to the place of burial or cremation.

We have found that by having a simple ceremony at home and shrouding the body it helps the grieving process and allows the mind to begin accepting the loss of your loved one in a natural way.

Shrouding is as an old tradition and many cultures and religions still practice this tradition. It is only in Western countries that we have given away our freedom of choice to strangers.

Some funeral directors will work closely with you to help and facilitate your wishes and shrouding is one of those services. However, you need to check that the funeral director you choose is sympathetic to shrouding and will work with you.