Changes to funerals in Tier 4

England – In Tier 4 areas, funerals can be attended by a maximum of 30 people and must only take place in Covid-19 secure venues or in public outdoor spaces unless in exceptional circumstances. Please note, linked religious, belief-based or commemorative events, such as stone settings and ash scatterings can also continue with up to 6 people in attendance. Anyone working is not counted in these limits. Social distancing should be maintained between people who do not live together or share a support bubble.

People who live in Tier 4 areas may travel to a funeral or linked commemorative event outside the Tier 4 area, but the event must follow the Tier 4 gathering limits. Similarly, people who live outside a Tier 4 area and are going to a funeral or linked commemorative inside a Tier 4 area must comply with the Tier 4 gathering limits.

Scotland – All of Scotland will be placed under protection level 4 restrictions from Boxing Day. The new measures will be in place for at least three weeks. Under protection level 4, funerals and post-funeral gatherings, such as wakes, can take place with a maximum capacity of 20 guests providing the venue’s capacity allows for appropriate physical distancing. Face coverings must be worn except for the person leading the ceremony. Further details can be found here.

Wales – Under Alert level 4, funerals can go ahead with the number of mourners dictated by the venue’s social distancing capability. Crematoria and places of worship will remain open. However wakes are not permitted under Alert level 4 and people should not meet people outside their household or support bubble. Details can be found here.

Northern Ireland – From Saturday 26th December, Northern Ireland will face fresh coronavirus restrictions, including a limit of 25 mourners at funerals and a ban on pre and post-funeral gatherings. 

Additionally, the remains of the deceased may be taken back to private homes, but wakes are not to be held and funeral services in private homes are not to take place. A person responsible for organising or operating a funeral or associated event elsewhere must comply with guidance on managing funerals and associated gatherings. Any mourner displaying symptoms of Covid-19 should not attend a funeral.