ALTHOUGH funeral services are still allowed to go ahead in this current coronavirus lockdown situation, Fife Council must all follow Government instructions and take every precaution to stop the spread of Covid-19.

To keep people safe, funerals are now restricted to immediate family only.

In line with Government guidance, Fife Council has changed its rules for funeral attendances and cemeteries.

Funerals are being limited to small numbers of family members to help stop the spread of Covid-19 by minimising social contact. families should keep numbers to no more than 6 people. The Government has also stressed that social distancing guidelines must followed at all times, including funerals.

At this time, immediate family is defined as: Partner/spouse of the deceased; Children (and their partners) of the deceased; Parents (or carers) of the deceased; Brothers and sisters of the deceased.

Said a spokesperson for Funeral Services: "The critical thing we must do is stop the disease spreading between households.

"We have been told we should not be meeting family members who do not live in your home. The council appreciates that bereavement is a very difficult time for families and friends, but we must do everything we can to minimise the spread of Covid-19 and keep people safe.

"The message is protection of yourself, your loved ones, your community and our national health service. We also ask that you help protect our staff, funeral directors, officiants and organist".

Unfortunately, if these rules are not followed, the council will move to close services.

For more information on bereavement and funerals please visit https://www.fife.gov.uk/kb/docs/articles/community-life2/bereavement-services