New support service for North Central London
Support After Suicide (SAS) have launched a new local service to support those bereaved by suicide. Operating across the 5 boroughs of North Central London (NCL) (Camden, Islington, Haringey, Barnet and Enfield), it is provided by the national charity, Rethink Mental Illness (commissioned by Public health teams across the 5 boroughs). It offers to those […]
SAIF welcomes new members
Despite Covid-19 restrictions, SAIF is still able to accept and process membership applications. We are delighted to welcome these Members who have joined since August 2020: Alexander Davidson and Sons Funeral Director based in Loanhead, Midlothian Anthony Johnson Funeral Service based in Rossendale, Lancashire Dewi Glyn Jones Funeral Directors based in Llandudno, Conwy Durrant Funeral […]
Gain access to emergency funeral staff
As a small independent funeral company, do you have a contingency plan for emergency staff arrangements if members of your team are self-isolating or unwell? SAIF Scotland are developing a contingency plan in conjunction with the Scottish Government. This enables independents who wish to be part of the scheme access to emergency staff for 24-72 […]
Prospective new member in Northumberland
SAIF has received an application from a prospective new member based in Northumberland.Please log onto the members area and visit the ‘membership pending’ page to see further details
Suicide Bereavement online conference – 18th November
Don’t forget to book your place at the Suicide Bereavement UK 2020 online conference. The event will highlight the experiences and perceived needs of over 7,000 people bereaved or affected by suicide (largest suicide bereavement survey internationally). It runs from 9 am to 1.30 pm on 18th November and the cost is £45 per person. […]
SAIF webinar recording available
If you missed Mark Binnersley’s recent webinar, a recording is now available to watch. The webinar addresses the issue of online pricing, which is now a requirement of SAIF membership (effective from 31/3/2021). SAIF’S Code of Practice was recently updated to include online pricing. The aim is to help independent funeral directors avoid the pain […]
Beware of phishing scams
From Her Majesty’s Revenues & Collections Stay vigilant about scams, which may mimic government messages as a way of appearing authentic. Search ‘scams’ on GOV.UK for information on how to recognise genuine HMRC contact. You can also forward suspicious emails claiming to be from HMRC to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk and texts to 60599.
SAIF Members – having difficulties with Covid tests?
SAIF has been contacted by a number of members in relation to Covid tests, with some advising that they are privately purchasing equipment such as antigen tests due to challenges around getting tested via official channels. Others are deploying tools such as thermometer guns to conduct daily temperature checks on staff. SAIF is keen to […]
Reporting coronavirus incidents under RIDDOR
The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) has published guidance on when and how you should report coronavirus incidents under RIDDOR. The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR) apply to all sectors and workplaces in Great Britain. You should only make a report under RIDDOR, relating to coronavirus, when: an accident or […]
Prospective new member in Co.Durham
SAIF has received an application from a prospective new member based in Co.Durham.Please log onto the members area and visit the ‘membership pending’ page to see further details
Two SAIF online meetings today
We have two important meetings running today. Please register your place if you’ve not already done so: SAIF Members’ Webinar at 2 pm SAIF Scotland Meeting at 6 pm
Central cremation service availability portal launched
The Deceased Management Advisory Group (DMAG), of which SAIF is a leading member, produced a Lessons Learned Report following the first wave of the pandemic. It contained a number of recommendations, including that: A UK wide central cremation service availability portal is developed, and its adoption encouraged. This has now been made available and it is […]
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme update
From Her Majesty’s Revenues & Collections The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS), which was due to end on 31 October, will now be extended, with the UK government paying 80% of wages for the hours furloughed employees do not work, up to a cap of £2,500 for periods from 1 November. You will need to pay […]
SAIF Scotland online meeting 5th November
SAIF Scotland will be holding an online meeting at 6.00 pm on Thursday 5th November and all members are encouraged to join. The agenda and minutes from the previous meeting will be circulated by email in due course. Find out more here and book your place.
SAIF Members’ webinar 5th November
All Members are invited to SAIF’s webinar with Mark Binnersley on 5th November at 2 pm. Find out more and book your place here.
Funeral guidance in Scotland changes from 2nd November
The Scottish Government has updated its three main guidance documents for the funeral industry to account for the new system of local protection levels, introduced from today, 2nd November. The documents can be viewed here and include: funeral director guidance funeral services guidance burial and cremation authorities guidance Scotland’s Strategic Framework sets out the different levels of […]
Launch of national suicide bereavement report at online conference
Suicide Bereavement UK have announced that the national suicide bereavement survey report will be launched at their 2020 online event on 18th November. The event will highlight the experiences and perceived needs of over 7,000 people bereaved or affected by suicide (largest suicide bereavement survey internationally). It runs from 9 am to 1.30 pm on […]
Funeral directors’ service to nation recognised by Government
SAIF, along with members of DMAG, have received an official letter of thanks to funeral professionals for the sterling work they continue to do for bereaved families during the pandemic. The letter, from Alex Chalk MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice, said: “I know that you and your members have been working extremely hard […]
Employer updates from HMRC
Info from Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs: Read the Employer Bulletin (October 2020, Issue 86) which includes all of the latest COVID-19 updates to help you continue to meet your payroll obligations to HMRC, including recent government announcements of additional support for businesses and employees. Also inside is the latest update on both the Coronavirus […]
SAIFCare Chat – bereavement support for all SAIF Member clients
SAIF thanks Paul Allcock for this thoughts. Paul is our Government Liaison, long-standing Exec Committee Member and Past President. Over the years there have been many individual countries that have had to deal with life changing events. Be those through war or natural disasters. However, the effect of COVID-19 is the first time that the […]
28th October deadline for contribution to bereavement leave research.
SAIF has been contacted by Mathew Crawley who has worked in bereavement services for over 20 years. He is currently undertaking a research project into the provision of statutory bereavement leave within the workplace, through the University of Northampton as part of a dissertation for his Masters Degree. Mathew is asking the question ‘What causes […]
Zero VAT rate on PPE ends on 31st October
SAIF advises members that the temporary zero VAT rate on PPE introduced in May 2020 is due to end on 31st October. Therefore members may wish to consider placing orders for additional stock sooner rather than later in order to take advantage of the exemption period and save 20% on costs. Products covered by the zero rate […]
Prospective new member in Somerset
SAIF has received an application from a prospective new member based in Somerset.Please log onto the members area and visit the ‘membership pending’ page to see further details
Tech Talk recording now available for SAIF Members
If you were unable to join our recent webinar with Declan Maguire, a recording of the session is now available: SAIF Members may login to the Members’ area Then use this link In the session Declan showcases a customisable mortuary book which he set up on Trello, a free to download software app. The digital […]
Funeral coronavirus policies explained
The Ministry of Justice has kindly provided a table which explains the different funeral policies in relation to coronavirus across England, Scotland and Wales (Northern Ireland is to follow). Please note that this is subject to change and SAIF will endeavour to provide updated versions as and when changes occur. We also advise members to regularly monitor the […]
Feedback request on the Tell Us Once service
You may be aware of the Government’s Tell Us Once service, which enables bereaved families to inform official departments, just once, of a death. It is free to use and is accessed via a Registrar. Many SAIF members may already provide Tell Us Once flyers to families to raise their awareness of the service. Officials would like […]
SAIF Members help requested for research project
SAIF has been contacted by Mathew Crawley who has worked in bereavement services for over 20 years. He is currently undertaking a research project into the provision of statutory bereavement leave within the workplace, through the University of Northampton as part of a dissertation for his Masters Degree. Mathew is asking the question ‘What causes […]
Suicide Bereavement online conference 18th November
Suicide Bereavement have announced that their 2020 conference will take place online on 18th November. The event will run from 9 am to 1.30 pm and will cost £45 +VAT per person. “Suicide Bereavement UK’s online conference will combine the Arts (i.e. poetry, artists) alongside science and lived experience to host an engaging online conference, […]
Government webinars on Coronavirus Job Retention & SSP Rebate Scheme
Information from HMRC:Changes to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme from 1st October mean that employers will need to fund 20% of furloughed employees’ usual wages for the hours they do not work and continue to pay their National Insurance and pension contributions. The scheme closes on 31 October and you will need to make any final claims […]
SAIF members recommended to confirm mourner numbers
Who is at fault if the number number of mourners exceeds the government guidelines or is too high for a venue to be COVID secure? SAIF has heard reports of crematoria stating that funeral directors are liable to be fined in these cases. We recommend that SAIF members ask clients to sign a form to […]
Don’t forget SAIF webinar Tuesday 13th October
Improve your funeral home’s productivity SAIF Scotland Treasurer and Membership Officer, Declan Maguire will host a follow-up to his previous Tech Talk, this time focusing on how you can improve your funeral home’s productivity. Declan is excited to share his knowledge of simple to use technology which is available for internet download to add to […]
Protect vulnerable workers during the pandemic
Information from the Health & Safety Executive- October 2020 You should make sure you consider the risk to workers who are particularly vulnerable to coronavirus and put controls in place to reduce that risk. HSE Guidance explains what you should do as an employer to protect vulnerable workers during the pandemic. It covers the following […]
Scottish funerals and wakes exempt from new restrictions
News from the Scottish Government Funeral Industry News The First Minister announced on 7 October some tightening of restrictions including for bars and restaurants across Scotland. In specific areas of Scotland: Greater Glasgow & Clyde, Lanarkshire, Ayrshire & Arran, Lothian and Forth Valley, those measures are even more restrictive. A funeral service, as well as a funeral […]
SAIF Members’ webinar Tuesday 13th October
Improve your funeral home’s productivity SAIF Scotland Treasurer and Membership Officer, Declan Maguire will host a follow-up to his previous Tech Talk, this time focusing on how you can improve your funeral home’s productivity. Declan is excited to share his knowledge of simple to use technology which is available for internet download to add to […]
SAIF online regional meeting 14th October at 6 pm
Join SAIF colleagues from the comfort of your office or home Usually we’d be holding our Essex and Kent meetings at this time of year and looking forward to meeting up with members in these areas. Due to the concern about public gatherings, we’ll be holding this as an online event on Wednesday 14th October […]
Carrying the cords and coffin – rules in Scotland
Update from the Scottish Government Funeral Industry News Prior to the pandemic, family members could participate in the lowering or carrying of the coffin. They were routinely assisted and directed by funeral directors or their staff in doing so. As experienced professionals, the staff’s role is to guide the process. Now, because of the requirement […]
Make your last wishes known using Listpals app
Having lost both of their fathers in a short space of time, Louise and John Magee recognised the need to talk about death and plan for it in the short, rather than long, term. Changing the existing culture in which people do not talk about death (and therefore funeral planning) is a long term goal. […]
Independent funeral directors at forefront of online price transparency
As part of SAIF’s work to help independent funeral directors thrive in a rapidly changing world, members have agreed unanimously to lead the way in improving price transparency for bereaved families. In a historic vote at a special general meeting today (6th October), SAIF has opted to incorporate online pricing as a requirement in its […]
The SAIF Winter Covid-19 Checklist
As coronavirus continues to spread within the community, we thought it might be helpful to create a SAIF Winter Covid-19 Checklist for funeral directors. It is imperative that SAIF members are prepared for a potential rise in deaths. We strongly encourage independent funeral directors to: – Ensure sufficient PPE supplies and that all items are […]
Nominations welcomed for IFD College award
Nominations are welcomed for the Independent Funeral Directors’ (IFD) College’s new award: the Matthew Gallagher Achievement Award. Matthew, who served as a college governor, assessor and verifier, had a unique ability to encourage and find something good in every student’s work. He was a master of inclusivity and vision. It is, therefore, appropriate that this […]
Funeral supplies updated
With Covid-19 cases increasing, we have contacted our SAIF Associates to find out their current stock levels of funeral supplies. Click here for the latest information.
ITV documentary on funeral costs on 1st October
SAIF would like to alert members to a television documentary being aired this evening, 1st October, at 7.30 pm on ITV (not Wales, STV Central, STV North) about the funeral profession. Titled ‘Funerals: the true cost?’, ITV’s flagship current affairs show investigates our sector and in particular its approach to pricing. SAIF has liaised with ITV […]
1 day left to respond to CMA Provisional Decision Report
Thank you to our members who have responded to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) about their Provisional Decision Report. SAIF believes that the proposals are a threat to independent funeral directors with ‘one-size-fits-all’ regulation. If you have yet to do so, please email the CMA Funeral Market Investigation Panel Chairman, Mr Martin Coleman at funerals@cma.gov.uk, specifically giving your […]
Is your funeral business Covid secure?
From 28th September, it is a legal requirement for all businesses in England to operate in a Covid Secure way. This includes onsite at your premises and when offsite, for example, visiting a residential home to take a deceased person into your care. Please note that businesses which fail to operate in a Covid Secure way, if […]
Prospective new member in Derbyshire
SAIF has received an application from a prospective new member based in Derbyshire.Please log onto the members area and visit the ‘membership pending’ page to see further details
Your business could be under threat from CMA proposals – make your views known.
Thank you to our members who have responded to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) about their Provisional Decision Report. SAIF believes that the proposals are a threat to independent funeral directors with ‘one-size-fits-all’ regulation. If you have yet to do so, please email the CMA Funeral Market Investigation Panel Chairman, Mr Martin Coleman at funerals@cma.gov.uk, specifically giving your […]
Prospective new member in Rhondda Cyon Taf
SAIF has received an application from a prospective new member based in Rhondda Cyon Taf.Please log onto the members area and visit the ‘membership pending’ page to see further details.
Create a coronavirus NHS QR code for your venue
Use this Government service to create a QR code for display in your venue (in England and Wales). Get visitors to scan the QR code when they arrive, using the NHS COVID-19 app. This is to help trace and stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). You should create and display a QR code if you […]
How does the Rule of Six apply to funerals and wakes?
In recent days, all governments around the UK have banned gatherings of more than six people. In general, funeral services are exempted from these rules, however, the restrictions have their own local differences and we encourage SAIF members to read relevant local information, which can be found here: – England (funeral service mourner numbers capped at 30 but […]
Respond to CMA Provisional Decision Report by 1st October
Thank you to our members who have responded to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) about their Provisional Decision Report. SAIF believes that the proposals are a threat to independent funeral directors with ‘one-size-fits-all’ regulation. If you have yet to do so, please email the CMA Funeral Market Investigation Panel Chairman, Mr Martin Coleman at funerals@cma.gov.uk, specifically giving your […]
Take advantage of the Government’s Kickstart Scheme by 15th September
SAIF members are encouraged to consider taking advantage of the Government’s Kickstart Scheme, which is aimed at offering six-month job placements to people aged between 16 and 24 who are on Universal Credit or at risk of long-term unemployment. On this issue, Scottish members should defer to SAIF Scotland, which is coordinating applications locally, whilst details […]
Prospective new member in Kent
SAIF has received an application from a prospective new member based in Kent.Please log onto the members area and visit the ‘membership pending’ page to see further details.
Prospective new member in Belfast
SAIF has received an application from a prospective new member based in Belfast.Please log onto the members area and visit the ‘membership pending’ page to see further details.
HSE Covid-19 inspections
SAIF Members should be aware that the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) is carrying out spot inspections to ensure all workplaces are COVID-secure as coronavirus cases continue to rise in certain areas. HSE is contacting businesses to provide advice and guidance to manage risk and protect workers but where some employers are not managing this, […]
IFD College award now open for nominations
From 1st September, nominations are welcomed for the Independent Funeral Directors’ (IFD) College’s new award: the Matthew Gallagher Achievement Award. Matthew, who served as a college governor, assessor and verifier, had a unique ability to encourage and find something good in every student’s work. He was a master of inclusivity and vision. It is, therefore, […]
CMA Provisional Decision Report update
Thank you to members who contacted the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) about extending the deadline for responding to their Provisional Decision Report (PDA). The deadline has been extended to 5 pm on 1st October. We have more time but we still need your help to ensure that the voice of the independent funeral director […]
The future of YOUR independent funeral business is at stake.
Dear Member, We need your urgent help. Following publication of the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) Provisional Decision Report (“PDR”), the future of the independent funeral profession is at stake. We urge you to read this information fully and take action on, for your own business future and that of the independent funeral sector. Please […]
HSE tools for safe working during Covid-19
The Health & Safety Executive has provided a huge range of resources to help employers keep their staff safe whilst working during Covid-19. These include: Risk Assessment Advice on making your work place Covid-19 secure Cleaning, hygiene and sanitiser Protecting vulnerable workers
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme changes from 1st September
This information is from Her Majesty’s Revenues & Collections: From 1 September Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) will pay 70% of usual wages up to a cap of £2,187.50 per month for the hours furloughed employees do not work. You will still need to pay your furloughed employees at least 80% of their usual wages for […]
Prospective new member in Mid Glamorgan
SAIF has received an application from a prospective new member based in Miskin, Mid Glamorgan. .Please log onto the members area and visit the ‘membership pending’ page to see further details.