Coronavirus 10 Mourner Rule
Many families are experiencing further heartbreak over new restrictions on funerals and must now change their funeral plans.
No more than 10 mourners can attend funerals from until further notice, Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced.
The 10-person limit includes a funeral director and celebrant if used, so in reality only eight or nine family members can be present.
Thousands of West Australian families will be affected; the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board recorded more than 12,000 funerals for the 2018-2019 financial year.
Families must accept having an unattended or very small basic funeral, and instead plan a larger celebratory memorial in several months’ time when restrictions are lifted.
Alternatively, they could hold the full funeral and live-stream to family members who could not be present.
The full service might not be available for much longer as COVID-19 takes hold and funeral homes need to increase their capacity.
Remembrance Funerals are turning our attention to implementing measures to deal with clients electronically, though for now we are still able to meet face-to-face or via online meetings as requested.
Some things to consider
The MCB and chapels are assisting with spacing and enforcing the 1.5-metre rule, with one person on the end of each pew, which have been spaced further apart.
Coffins can be placed on trolleys, so the family members present need not be capable of lifting.
Catering and limousines are still available for now and increased hygiene and distancing measures are being implemented around these services.
Mourners can still bring flowers and physical tributes, though should be mindful that they must be responsible around objects that will be touched by multiple people.
Contact us to for any advice regarding planning a funeral in these uncertain times.
