Update on funerals and related events from Thursday 5 November
The Prime Minister announced on Saturday 31 October that further measures will be put in place in England to tackle the spread of coronavirus from Thursday 5 November. The new measures will apply nationally for four weeks up to Wednesday 2 December.
During the lockdown funerals can continue, with up to a maximum of 30 people and it is advised that only close family and friends attend. Linked ceremonial events can also continue, but will be subject to a maximum of 15 people. At St Andrew’s Cemetery, Hexham, Cemetery staff will continue to provide the burial service but the Chapel is closed, so only graveside services may be held.
On the Government website the following information is given:
Weddings, civil partnerships, religious services and funerals
Funerals can be attended by a maximum of 30 people, and it is advised that only close friends and family attend. Linked ceremonial events such as stone settings and ash scatterings can also continue with up to 15 people in attendance. Anyone working is not included. Social distancing should be maintained between people who do not live together or share a support bubble.
Weddings, civil partnership ceremonies will not be permitted to take place except in exceptional circumstances.
Places of Worship will be closed, unless they are being used for:
- Funerals
- To broadcast acts of worship
- Individual prayer
- Formal childcare or where part of a school
- Essential voluntary and public services, such as blood donation or food banks
- Other exempted activities such as some support groups