Why is the UK funeral industry facing regulation?

The industry faces regulation due to several scandals involving the mishandling and abuse of deceased individuals, prompting calls for stronger safeguards.

What did the David Fuller inquiry reveal about the funeral sector?

The inquiry found systemic failures and described the sector in England as an 'unregulated free for all,' highlighting a lack of effective monitoring.

What changes are being proposed for funeral directors in England?

Proposals include a new licensing scheme, mandatory inspections, enforcement powers, and professional qualification requirements for funeral directors.

Home / Crime and Justice / Unregulated UK Funerals: Ministers Act After Abuses

Unregulated UK Funerals: Ministers Act After Abuses

16 Dec

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Summary

England's funeral industry faces regulation after abuse scandals.
Inquiry found the sector an 'unregulated free for all'.
Families demand stronger safeguards and professional qualifications.

Unregulated UK Funerals: Ministers Act After Abuses

Calls for regulating England's funeral industry have intensified following numerous scandals and an official inquiry that described the sector as an "unregulated free for all." Bereaved families are demanding new investigatory bodies and rules for professional qualifications, highlighting a stark contrast with Scotland, which has had industry oversight since March. The current lack of regulation in England allows anyone to establish a funeral business without demonstrating experience or qualifications.

Recent incidents have underscored the urgent need for change. An inquiry into the double killer David Fuller's abuse of over 100 bodies in an NHS mortuary revealed systemic failures in monitoring those handling remains. Furthermore, directors of a Hampshire funeral home were convicted after six decomposing bodies were discovered, and another firm, Legacies Independent Funeral Directors, was found with 35 bodies, leading to fraud charges for its owner.