Sadly, people sometimes receive a life-limiting diagnosis. Or they simply want to plan their own funeral while they are still able.

I was previously a bereavement counsellor and pastoral carer, and I am accredited to perform such pre-planned funerals.

The process begins with a short, consultative meeting (at no charge) followed by the writing of a suitable ceremony script. When this is approved by the client, a copy is logged with Humanists UK, so that if the celebrant’s circumstances change, the final ceremony can still be delivered just as the client planned.

“I just wanted to say thank you once again for everything you have done to make [his] funeral ceremony such a memorable one. You really went above and beyond. 

I had a couple of people remark that it was the best funeral they had ever attended. One friend of mine said it was a real eye opener that a secular service could be so warm and meaningful and was making her rethink what sort of service she would like to have when her time came.

I really appreciate the lengths you went to to extract the essence of [him] both from your meetings with him and from all the stories and anecdotes various people gave you. It was all put together so sensitively, and you led the ceremony so well. You must take the bulk of the credit for how smoothly it all went too.

You got [him]. I kept thinking all afternoon how pleased he would have been with everything.”

“Simon worked with us to plan, design and hold a family funeral. He was clear, gentle, respectful, highly professional, and enabled us to give our much-loved family member a wonderful send-off. Simon gave us a huge amount of time, listened carefully and guided us through the whole process with wisdom and thoughtfulness. We are extremely grateful.”

Thank you card