SAIF members and colleagues gathered in Leicester on Saturday 10 October for a full day of questions, practical learning and open conversation.
One of the day’s most powerful moments came from Karen Dry, Founder of the Hull 35 Support Group and lead spokesperson for families affected by the events in Hull.
Karen Dry spoke candidly about the experiences of affected families and received a standing ovation from the room. The contribution brought the voices of families directly into the day’s discussion about funeral standards, accountability and regulation.
The programme covered funeral director regulation, the experiences of families, professional standards, aftercare, resilience, changing funeral choices and support available to members. Those attending could also gain five hours of Continuing Professional Development.
William Vineall, Director at the Department of Health and Social Care, joined online to discuss funeral director regulation. Tom Poynter, SAIF National Campaign Lead, followed with the latest from #HandledWithCare.
The programme then moved into the detail of supporting families and creating more personal experiences. Emily Skelton of Westerleigh Group discussed hospitality and personalisation, while Chaplain Ahmed Alsisi of White Rose Funerals explored how support for families can continue beyond the funeral.
During the afternoon, Jill Hood of Golden Charter shared insight into research-led marketing. Helen Chandler of Kindly Earth and Andrew Purves of William Purves Funeral Directors discussed resomation in the UK, also known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation.
Stuart Ridley of Obitus considered support for funeral arrangers, while Fabiola Franco, SAIF Digital Marketing Lead, presented funeral cost insights and digital support for members.
Psychotherapist and author Joanna Williams offered a new look at resilience and practical ways to build it for the long term. Mark Wrigley, Head of Regulation at the Human Tissue Authority (HTA), closed the learning programme with a session on HTA standards, guidance and security.
Questions came from across the room throughout the day. Members tested ideas, compared experiences and spoke openly about what the different developments could mean for their businesses and the families they support.
The annual IFD College Awards also recognised learners and their achievements, celebrating the work involved in continued professional development across the funeral profession.
Away from the stage, members spent time with SAIF Associate members, exhibitors, Platinum Sponsors and commercial partners. Conversations continued over coffee and lunch, often picking up where a session had finished.
SAIF National President Gary Staker opened and closed the day, while SAIF Chief Executive Terry Tennens welcomed everyone at the start of the programme. Members also helped raise more than £500 for the President’s chosen charity, Parkinsons UK, through the day’s raffle. Congratulations to Rachel Shipley from Anstey & District Funeral Services, who took home the hamper.
Thank you to every member and colleague who joined us, and to all the speakers, exhibitors, IFD College, Platinum Sponsors and commercial partners who supported the day.
The number and range of questions showed the value of making time to learn together. Members left Leicester with practical information, new contacts and plenty to consider within their own businesses.
Photography credits: Angelic Photo
