More transparency on funeral charges

A consultation on guidance that seeks to make funeral costs easier to understand has been published by the Scottish Government.

The consultation sets out measures that burial authorities, crematoriums and funeral directors can take to make funeral costs transparent and more understandable.

The consultation and guidance is part of the Scottish Government’s strategy to tackle funeral poverty.

Cabinet Secretary for Communities Aileen Campbell said:

“The loss of a loved one can be one of the most distressing times we will face, an experience that can be made even worse for people who are struggling to pay for a funeral.

“We are committed to tackling funeral poverty in Scotland. This guidance is one of a series of actions set out in our Funeral Costs Plan, and today’s launch marks an important step in helping people understand and plan for the costs associated with arranging a funeral.

“While we’re not responsible for the prices set by councils and businesses, we want to encourage funeral directors and burial and cremation authorities to make information more accessible.

“I would encourage anyone with an interest in this sensitive area to give us their views.”

Background

The funeral costs guidance consultation will run for 12 weeks.

The Scottish Government has published a 10-point Funeral Costs Plan to tackle funeral poverty.

It has also published the Planning Your Own Funeral leaflet.

Contact

Murray Meikle: 0131 244 1832 / 07818 454 665