In response to the current coronavirus pandemic, Perth & Kinross Council has introduced an option to allow families bidding their final farewell to loved ones to do so safely and while observing physical distancing.
National regulations require that only immediate family can attend funeral services (spouse/partner, parents/carers, siblings and children).
At what is already a difficult time for the bereaved, finding a way to enable other mourners to make their own personal dedication was identified as crucial. As a result, funeral services at Perth Crematorium can now be watched live via a private web stream, made accessible only to the bereaved.
Several services have already taken place recently using the webcam facility with mourners logging on from around the UK and further afield. The feedback from families received to date has been overwhelmingly positive:
"I just wanted to thank you for getting the live streaming up and running. [We] all were able to access easily and see the service."
"I would like to pass on our sincerest thanks....the live video link meant many family members and friends could attend remotely. This gave us great comfort that so many people could be there to share the service."
"I'm just very thankful for the measures you put in place and hope other families can find some solace in your department's efforts to make a difficult situation much more bearable."
Executive Director, Housing and Environment, Barbara Renton said: "The introduction of the webcam for services at Perth Crematorium has been aimed at helping bereaved families to give their loved ones a proper farewell during the current lockdown. We recognised the value of using technology to bridge the gap and support people already going through what is perhaps the hardest life experience of all, while ensuring they are protected by observing the national physical distancing regulations.
"The feedback we have had so far is extremely heartening and I am really pleased that providing this service is offering some extra comfort to families at a very difficult time."