Beckfords, Guernsey’s longest established funeral directors has launched a free online Expression of Wishes service for anyone who wants to set out what they would like for their funeral, without the expense of taking out a formal plan.

Zac Hannis, Beckfords’ General Manager explains the idea behind it,

A funeral is as much about you saying goodbye to your friends and family as it is an opportunity for them to say goodbye to you. An Expression of Wishes not only gives individuals peace of mind that their wishes will be followed, but it can also ensure that their family will be spared any extra worry or difficult decisions by removing any doubts over what  their loved one would have wanted.”

He adds “By making this an online service we hope that it will be more accessible for people. Of course, anyone can meet with us in person if they prefer to, but it’s not something that everyone feels ready to do or can find the time for. With the online service, you can log on at your convenience and easily note down your wishes.”

Beckfords online Expression of Wishes is a completely free, confidential service, users can put in as little or as much information as they like.

For example, they may want a direct cremation with no service at all, or they might ask for a hearse to drive past a special place on the way to a church funeral. Details are stored securely and can be accessed by the user and changed at any time.

Zac adds “We know that there is often reluctance to talk about what happens when we die, particularly with those closest to us.  We would encourage everyone to have that conversation, if they do not feel able to, this service will provide the reassurance of knowing that their wishes will be noted and carried out. We also know from years of experience, that being aware of a loved one’s wishes can be a great help to grieving families.  Many people have told us what a relief it has been knowing the funeral was what their loved one wanted.”

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Pictured: Zac Hannis General Manager and Funeral Director.