Co-op Funeralcare welcomes plans to open places of worship in Peterborough

Central England Co-op Funeralcare has welcomed news that Church of England buildings can start to re-open for services from this week.

It has backed the decision for a phased reopening at places of worship today (June 15) such as churches and cathedrals.

However, members of the public have been advised that the guidance is ‘permissive and not prescriptive’ and are urged to speak to their churches, vicars and funeral directors to understand plans on a local level.

People are also reminded that social distancing measures remain in place at all services and restricted to immediate family only which includes partners, parents, children, siblings and grandchildren.

Hazel Moss, head of funerals, said: “We welcome the decision by the Church of England and understand that for many families the potential of saying goodbye to a loved one in a church will make a huge difference in a difficult time.

“We will be working closely with our local churches to establish how they will react to this news and ensure that all our families are aware of how this applies to them and allow us to use our expertise to support them saying goodbye in the way they want.”

People can keep up-to-date with the latest guidance by visiting a dedicated online hub here