Saying Goodbye
Many people who were hesitant at first have been helped in the grieving process by spending some time with the body of the deceased before the funeral.
While the experience varies for everyone, it is important to be able to say goodbye, and spending time with the deceased can help to fully accept the finality of death. You may wish to leave with them small mementos such as a letter, photos or other meaningful items.
Lychgate offers private and comfortable viewing facilities for you and your family to say goodbye to the deceased, or if you would prefer we may be able to arrange for them to be brought to your home in the days prior to the funeral.
Children and Funerals
Dealing with the death of someone close is difficult at any age. Children and teenagers grieve too, although they may express it differently from adults. Whether they attend the funeral is up to the family.
However, in general, children do benefit from being involved, even in some small way, because it helps them to feel they are sharing their grief and honouring the person who has died.
Children often like to draw a picture or write a letter or poem to put in the casket. Just being there can help them understand, even if it takes time for them to deal with what has happened and what it means.
If you’re unsure about how much to involve your children in the funeral, talk to your Funeral Director. They will be able to give advice and suggest possible ways to make sure your child is able to participate in the grieving process without risking further trauma.