British Institute of Funeral Directors

Join us online for our monthly CPD session with Kate Bell from Survivors of Bereavement by Su***de (SOBS) on Monday, 12 August at 7.00pm. Don't miss this invaluable opportunity to enhance your understanding and skills. For the Zoom link, please contact our National Office at [email protected].

🎉 The British Institute of Funeral Directors is delighted to congratulate Tutor Hayley Owen-Barker and her husband Dave on the wonderful news of their pregnancy! 🎉

On behalf of National President Amanda Dalby, the Board of Directors, our members, fellows, and students, we send our heartfelt best wishes to Hayley and Dave as they embark on this exciting new journey. 🌟

Membership Renewals for 2024 are Overdue!

Attention all members: We're already a quarter way through the membership year! If you haven’t renewed yet, it’s time to act. We know it’s easy to overlook, but we need your attention on this.

After 31st July, we will remove expired members’ details from the National Office database. Please ensure you remove any BIFD logos from your website and premises, including expired membership and licence certificates.

We’ll be sad to see you go and sincerely thank you for your support over the years.

If you believe you’ve renewed or have any questions, please contact the National Office at [email protected].

🥂🍾 Congratulations to Past President Paul Stibbards!

The British Institute of Funeral Directors is thrilled to extend heartfelt congratulations to our esteemed Past President, Paul Stibbards, on his wedding to the lovely Esther. On behalf of National President Amanda Dalby, the Board of Directors, our members, fellows, and students, we wish you both a lifetime of happiness and joy. Your dedication and service to the Institute have been an inspiration to us all.

Warmest wishes for a beautiful future together. 👰‍♀️🤵‍♂️

Death Certification Reforms are Coming Soon, So What Do you Need To Know??

7. Burial and Cremation

Cremation and burial procedures are undergoing changes, particularly concerning the documentation required for non-coronial deaths. Presently, a medical practitioner, typically the attending one, completes form Cremation 4 (the medical certificate) to furnish necessary details for the medical referee's comprehension of the cause of death, should cremation be chosen. However, with the impending implementation of the statutory medical examiner system, the scrutiny conducted by medical examiners will render the confirmation on form Cremation 4 obsolete. Consequently, the regulatory obligation for the medical referee to review it will be eliminated.

Details regarding medical devices and implants within the deceased's body, presently documented on form Cremation 4, will be integrated into the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) and the burial or cremation certificate (green form) as outlined.

In cases under coronial investigation followed by cremation, the coroner will continue to certify the cause of death utilising form Cremation 6 (certificate of coroner). This form will be modified to allow the coroner to note information on medical devices and implants, where available, for communication to the cremation authority. Likewise, the coroner's burial order (form 101) will be adjusted to include information on medical devices and implants for the burial provider's reference.

Currently, medical referees authorise the cremation process based on the provided medical certification. They will retain their roles during the transition period of implementing the statutory medical examiner system. The Ministry of Justice will collect evidence during this transitional phase to determine the ongoing role of medical referees. Medical practitioners, coroners, and funeral directors will have opportunities to contribute to this decision-making process.

Death Certification Reforms are Coming Soon, So What Do you Need To Know??

6. Registration

The registration of deaths will only proceed once the registrar receives notification of the cause of death from either the medical examiner or the coroner. This notification will trigger the start of the 5-day statutory window for registering the death.

Informants should have the opportunity to discuss and be informed about the cause of death before registration. If any concerns are raised regarding the cause of death during registration, these issues will be forwarded to the coroner or medical examiner as necessary.

With the implementation of the death certification reforms, the registrar's duties will evolve, removing the requirement for registrars to refer deaths to the coroner. It will be the responsibility of either the attending practitioner or the medical examiner to determine which deaths require referral to the coroner. Consequently, the relationship between the registrar and the coroner will change significantly, as their interaction will be minimal, except in cases where the coroner provides a registration certificate following an inquest or a discontinued case.

The Registrar General will no longer be responsible for providing the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD), as the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) will handle the development and distribution of the new form.

As there will be limited interaction between the registrar and the coroner, the need for form 100A will be eliminated and thus removed from use.

As outlined in the draft medical certificate of cause of death regulations, specific circumstances will require the coroner to provide information to the medical examiner.

Furthermore, there will be an expanded scope of cases where the coroner, having declined jurisdiction, will communicate this decision to the attending practitioner. The General Register Office, Ministry of Justice, and DHSC will collaborate to ensure the new process functions effectively and will adjust coroner's forms and certificates accordingly.

The objective is to reduce uncertified deaths, with the attending practitioner certifying initially, with medical examiner approval, or the medical examiner certifying in exceptional circumstances following referral by the coroner.

These changes will also introduce new categories of qualified informants, allowing the partner of the deceased and a representative of the deceased to register the death.

Death Certification Reforms are Coming Soon, So What Do you Need To Know??

5. The Coroner

The draft Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) Regulations primarily focus on the completion of the MCCD. However, they also outline the flow of information among the attending practitioner, medical examiner, coroner, and registrar within the new system.

The Notification of Deaths Regulations 2019 will continue to apply, with minor adjustments due to the changes. Attending practitioners must still notify the coroner of deaths meeting the criteria outlined in those regulations, and the coroner will determine any necessary follow-up actions.

In exceptional circumstances where no qualified medical practitioner is available to certify a death and the coroner's jurisdiction is not applicable, provision will allow the medical examiner to issue certification.

Presently, attending practitioners can directly report deaths to the coroner if they believe it's a statutory obligation. In such cases, there's no requirement for them to notify the medical examiner. If the coroner declines jurisdiction, they will inform the attending practitioner, who will then proceed with completing the MCCD, subject to scrutiny by the medical examiner.

As per the new system's design, endorsed by the General Register Office and implicit in the draft regulations, coroners will no longer be responsible for notifying the registrar when they determine that their duty to investigate under the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 is not applicable.

Regarding interactions with the registrar, little change is expected when investigations are discontinued following a post-mortem examination, and this will now extend to include cases discontinued without such an examination. The process for coroners' interactions with the registrar after an inquest will remain largely unchanged.

Death Certification Reforms are Coming Soon, So What Do you Need To Know??

4. Medical Examiner Certification

Following the guidelines outlined in the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 and the proposed regulations for the medical certificate of cause of death, the Government are introducing medical examiner certification to address exceptional circumstances, namely:

1. When no attending practitioner is available.
2. When an attending practitioner cannot be reached within a reasonable time-frame.

In such cases, where the senior coroner decides against initiating an investigation after referral by a medical practitioner who is not a medical examiner, the senior coroner should direct the case to a medical examiner for certification. This certification will be completed through a medical examiner MCCD.

Legislation and guidance will specify that the medical examiner MCCD is to be used exclusively in exceptional circumstances, after all efforts to locate an attending practitioner have been exhausted by the referring practitioner. It will be clarified that only the senior coroner, and not the referring medical practitioner, has the authority to refer the death for certification by the medical examiner.

While medical examiners completing a medical examiner MCCD may not interact with an attending practitioner, all other aspects of medical examiner scrutiny will remain intact. Supported by medical examiner officers, medical examiners will continue to provide representatives of the deceased with opportunities to ask questions and voice concerns. They will conduct a balanced review of medical records. If, in the course of this review, the medical examiner determines an inability to ascertain the cause of death, the case will be referred back to the senior coroner.

Death Certification Reforms are Coming Soon, So What Do you Need To Know??

3. Medical Certificate Of Cause Of Death (MCCD)

Beginning in September 2024, a new iteration of the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) will replace the current certificate, aligning with the introduction of medical examiners who will scrutinize the proposed cause of death.

This update aims to enhance:

1. Efficiency within the death certification system.
2. Accuracy of mortality data for local and national purposes.

Forms for deaths occurring after 28 days of life and for neonatal deaths within the first 28 days will remain statutory, with bilingual versions available in Wales. The revamped MCCD will retain details of the attending practitioner who certified the cause of death based on their knowledge and belief.

Moreover, the revised MCCD will incorporate the following additions:

- Information on the medical examiner who reviewed the cause of death.
- Ethnicity data, self-declared by the patient on medical records, reflecting insights gained during the COVID-19 pandemic. If such data is absent, the attending practitioner can mark it as 'unknown' on the MCCD and should refrain from requesting it from the deceased's representative.
- Inclusion of maternal deaths and a new line (1d) for the cause of death, aligning with international standards.
- Recording of medical devices and implants by the attending practitioner on the MCCD, which will subsequently be transferred to the burial or cremation certificate (contained in the green form) by the registrar to inform relevant authorities of their presence.

A paper version of the updated MCCD will be distributed before the implementation of the statutory medical examiner system. Additionally, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) is developing an online version to facilitate easier sharing between attending practitioners, medical examiners, and registrars.

Death Certification Reforms are Coming Soon, So What Do you Need To Know??

2. Role Of The Medical Examiner

According to the proposed regulations for medical examiners, they will offer impartial examination of causes of death and serve as a point of contact for bereaved individuals seeking clarification or expressing concerns.

A medical examiner, typically a seasoned medical professional, will dedicate a set number of sessions each week to independently review causes of death, separate from their regular clinical responsibilities. Trained in both the legal and clinical aspects of death certification procedures, they do not have prior involvement in the patient's care. Supported by medical examiner officers acting under delegation, they conduct a thorough review of medical records and provide an opportunity for bereaved individuals to inquire and voice concerns.

Medical examiners have been conducting unbiased examinations of causes of death since the introduction of the non-statutory medical examiner system. This practice will persist under the new death certification process, with independent scrutiny by a medical examiner becoming a legal requirement prior to the registration of all non-coronial deaths in England and Wales.

Information on the national medical examiner system is accessible through NHS England, particularly the 'National Medical Examiner's Good Practice Guidelines'.

All guidelines will be revised to align with the implementation of the statutory medical examiner system.

Once both the attending practitioner and the medical examiner have completed their certifications and scrutiny, and the cause of death is confirmed, the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) will be forwarded to the registrar. Simultaneously, the deceased's representative will be notified that they can contact the registrar to proceed with the death registration process.

Death Certification Reforms are Coming Soon, So What Do you Need To Know??

1. Medical Practitioner

In the forthcoming reforms starting 9 September 2024, a medical practitioner will have the opportunity to serve as an attending practitioner and fill out a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) if they have attended to the deceased during their lifetime. The attending practitioner will suggest a cause of death to the best of their knowledge and belief. With the introduction of medical examiners, there will be regular independent examination of the cause of death proposed by attending practitioners.

This marks a streamlining of the current regulations, allowing medical practitioners to act as attending practitioners and complete MCCDs if they had attended the patient during their final illness. Previously, if they had not done so within 28 days before death or had not seen the patient in person after death, the case needed referral to a coroner for review.

Guidelines for filling out a medical certificate of cause of death will be revised to align with and complement the implementation of the statutory medical examiner system.

Completing an MCCD is already a legal requirement for attending practitioners, as outlined by the General Medical Council (GMC) in their 'Guidelines on End-of-Life Care Decision-Making.' This responsibility extends beyond the patient's death, emphasizing professionalism and compassion during the confirmation and pronouncement of death, along with adherence to relevant laws and statutory codes.

The significant change is that attending practitioners must now share the MCCD and proposed cause of death with a medical examiner for scrutiny before submission to the registrar.

📢New Statutory Medical Examiner System to be Rolled Out Across England and Wales

Starting from 9 September 2024, a new statutory medical examiner system will be implemented across England and Wales. This initiative aims to provide independent scrutiny of deaths and give bereaved people a voice. All deaths in any health setting not investigated by a coroner will be reviewed by NHS medical examiners.

This change is part of the Department of Health’s Death Certification Reforms, announced by the government on 15 April 2024. A key aspect of these reforms includes the introduction of a new medical certificate of cause of death (MCCD). Medical practitioners will now be able to complete an MCCD if they attended the deceased in their lifetime, simplifying the current rules that required referral to a coroner if the practitioner had not seen the patient within the 28 days prior to death or in person after death.

Stay tuned as we share more details about these changes and their implications in the coming days.

🌟 LOOK FOR OUR LOGO 🌟

www.BIFD.org.uk

At the British Institute of Funeral Directors, we are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and expertise in the funeral industry. That's why we offer three distinct levels of membership, each reflecting different levels of qualification and commitment. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out, there's a membership option for you!

🔹 Full Member (MBIFD) 🔹
Full membership of the BIFD is awarded to individuals who have achieved one of the following qualifications:
- The BIFD Diploma in Funeral Service (Dip. FS)
- The NAFD Diploma in Funeral Directing (Dip. FD)
- The IFD Certificate in Funeral Practice (Cert. FP)
- An equivalent qualification subject to BIFD Board of Education approval

🔹 Full Licensed to Practice Member (LMBIFD) 🔹
Our Licensed to Practice membership is granted annually to BIFD Full Members who demonstrate their dedication to excellence through 12 hours of approved Continuous Professional Development each year. This scheme is designed to promote and maintain best practices within the funeral profession, ensuring our members are always at the forefront of industry standards.

🔹 Associate Member (AMBIFD) 🔹
Associate Membership is open to individuals involved in occupations related to or supporting funeral directing. This includes those without formal funeral directing qualifications who still contribute to the profession. Whether you're a supplier, administrator, or otherwise involved in the industry, we welcome you to join our community of dedicated professionals.

When you see the BIFD logo, you can trust that you are working with funeral directors who are committed to excellence, professionalism, and ongoing development. Join us today and be part of a network that values integrity and dedication above all else.

Thank You to the Stroke Association Team!

A heartfelt thank you to Emma Kay, Mel Hudson, and Amy Spencer from the Stroke Association for joining us tonight at our monthly CPD session.

We had enriching discussions on vital topics such as communication access training, supporting the bereaved, and the importance of funding research. Your insights and dedication are invaluable to our continuous professional development and our mission to provide compassionate and comprehensive funeral services.

For those interested in enhancing their communication skills, especially in supporting individuals affected by stroke, you can register your business for the Communication Access Training by following this link: www.stroke.org.uk/webform/communication-access-training-businesses

To our incredible certificate candidate, today is a significant day as you sit for your final written examination. We know how hard you've worked, the dedication you've shown, and the countless hours you've put into preparing for this moment. Your commitment to excellence in the field of funeral directing is truly inspiring.

Remember to stay calm, trust your knowledge, and do your best. You're almost at the finish line, and we have every confidence in your success.

The whole team wish you the very best of luck! 🍀 You've got this!

Join us online for our free accredited CPD session TOMORROW, Wednesday 3 July 2024 at 7:00pm! 📅✨

This session will focus on the impactful work of the Stroke Association, how they support families who donate in memory, and the training available for funeral directors. An invaluable opportunity to enhance your knowledge and skills.

🔗 ZOOM link available from National Office: [email protected]

Discovering Funeral Traditions: Did You Know? Mourners used to stop clocks when someone died.

www.BIFD.org.uk

At the British Institute of Funeral Directors, we cherish the rich tapestry of traditions that surround funerals. One intriguing custom from history involves stopping the clocks when someone dies. This practice, popular during the Victorian era, held deep symbolism and significance.

Stopping the clocks in the room or house where someone had died served multiple purposes:

🕰️Preventing Bad Luck: It was believed to ward off misfortune associated with the passing.
🕰️Symbolising Transition: By halting time, it symbolically marked the departed's journey into a timeless realm, transcending earthly constraints.

This ritual often accompanied other gestures like covering mirrors, closing curtains, and turning over portraits—an ensemble of customs to honour the deceased's transition.

While this tradition is less common today, it reflects the depth of historical beliefs and cultural practices surrounding grief and remembrance.

Today, our 1st Vice President, Amanda Pink, attended the funeral of Past President Pat Gallagher on behalf of the Institute. It was a well-attended ceremony, with the church filled to capacity and additional venues providing a live stream for those unable to be there in person. Our thoughts and condolences are with Pat’s family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time.

Rest in peace, Pat. Your legacy within the Institute and the broader community will never be forgotten.

Our Mantra Is: “Educating the Profession”

www.BIFD.org.uk

Our Tutors offer courses for our Level 3 Certificate in Funeral Service and Level 4 Diploma in Funeral Service - these are both accredited by Greenwich University, and the highest attainable levels of funeral qualifications in Europe.

Visit our website to find out more: www.BIFD.org.uk

Join us online for our free accredited CPD session on Wednesday 3 July 2024 at 7:00pm! 📅✨

This session will focus on the impactful work of the Stroke Association, how they support families who donate in memory, and the training available for funeral directors. An invaluable opportunity to enhance your knowledge and skills.

🔗 ZOOM link available from National Office: [email protected]

🔔 Join The British Institute of Funeral Directors Today!🔔

Become part of a prestigious community dedicated to excellence in funeral service. Enhance your professional growth and network with industry leaders.

Contact National Office for more information on how you can become a member: [email protected]

🌐 or visit our website: www.BIFD.org.uk

Get ready for an unforgettable experience at our upcoming conference! Here’s a sneak peek of what’s in store:

🌟 Exclusive Excursion: On Saturday afternoon, join us for a memorable trip to the magnificent Piece Hall in Halifax! Explore the charm of this 18th-century courtyard, featuring an array of delightful shops, bars, and restaurants, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the iconic Northern Cloth Hall.

🚌 Convenient Shuttle Service: Enjoy a hassle-free journey with our shuttle buses, providing comfortable and convenient transportation to and from the Piece Hall.

🎺 Gala Dinner Delight: Prepare for an evening of entertainment at our Saturday Gala Dinner with the talented 'Friendly Yorkshire Brass Band'! Enjoy their vibrant melodies, including the beloved classic, "On Ilkley Moor Baht 'at."

42nd BIFD Conference
18 - 20 October 2024
Cedar Court Hotel
Ainley Top, Lindley Moor Rd, Elland, Huddersfield, HD3 3RH

Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to connect and celebrate with fellow funeral directors! Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today by contacting Conference Secretary, David Gresty, at [email protected].