Following death, the general appearance and condition of the person who has died can change considerably. There are many reasons for this such as medication, the time that has elapsed since they died, or the environment they have been in. It is not always possible to know when or if these changes will occur, therefore, with permission, we will carry out preparation to ensure the changes that may occur are kept to a minimum. This will also assist should you wish to spend some time with the deceased prior to the funeral.

When we bring them into our care they will rest in a temperature-controlled environment and be prepared in our private mortuary facility. You must also be aware that should we be advised that the deceased’s cause of death involved a notifiable illness, spending time with them may involve additional restrictions.

We will always ensure the deceased is treated with the greatest care and respect; and that their dignity is maintained at all times. Before we carry out any preparation, we will ensure we have the appropriate permission to do so. We will also check that we have all official authorisations required, and that the medical certificate of cause of death has been issued.

We will perform the following procedures unless otherwise directed by you:

• Any jewellery will be removed during preparation, before being replaced (if we are instructed that it is to remain). Alternatively, the jewellery will be returned to the specified person.
• Any clothing will be disposed of unless we are otherwise directed; and the deceased dressed in a gown.
• If the deceased has a medical implant such as a pacemaker and cremation is requested, the device will be removed to adhere to cremation regulations.
• We will wash the deceased using a mild disinfectant and warm water, dry; and where necessary clean fingernails, eyes, nose and mouth using a swab and disinfectant. We will also take steps to ensure there is no possibility for seepage of fluids.
• We will apply moisturiser cream to the face & hands and close the eyes and mouth using a suture. If requested, we will shave the face.
• We will arrange the hair and apply any cosmetics as per your instructions. It may be that we recommend embalming is carried out for the reasons of preservation, presentation and hygiene; in particular in cases where viewing is going to take place, or where there is an increased time between the time of death and the funeral taking place. We will always obtain separate permission before this procedure is carried out.

The Funeral Director Code of Practice defines embalming as the preservation of a body from decay through injection of a chemical embalming fluid. The preservative solution (the embalming fluid) replaces the blood as well as treating the body cavity and organs.