Chapel of Rest

The family should decide whether they wish to have their loved one reposing at home or in our Chapel of Rest and whether they wish to view the deceased.

For some, the decision isn’t easy - will the experience be helpful or add to the hurt? There are no easy answers and no one can make up your mind for you. We offer these notes in the hope that they will help you to decide what might be right for you.

As part of the funeral arrangements, you should have already discussed the matter of dress. You might have fond memories of your friend or relative in a particular dress or suit, perhaps even pyjamas or nightdress if they have been confined to bed for a long period, although we would ask you to check with our staff as to the suitability with regard to crematoria regulations. If dentures were normally worn, we can replace these to give a more natural look. Similarly, for someone we always saw wearing glasses, putting these on can help the deceased look "themselves".

If no special arrangements have been requested, we will dress the deceased in suitable attire. This fact is mentioned since some may be distressed at first view, to find their loved one dressed in an unfamiliar way.

Also remember that the deceased will be lying in a coffin or casket, head supported on a pillow and surrounded by the material lining. We never expect to see any of our relatives or friends in this way and this, together with them being absolutely still, can be a shock.

The Chapel of Rest is located at our premises where we are available not only during the day but also in the evenings and weekends. We do ask, though, that you make an appointment with us to ensure that you have our complete attention and that an experienced and understanding staff member is available for you.

The Chapel is private and you will be able to spend all the time that you feel you need with no pressure from us. While the Chapel is small and personal, there is no limit on the numbers who may attend or indeed the frequency of visits. Many people find great comfort in the quiet peace of the Chapel. Just being with their loved one, holding their hand, talking to them or giving a gentle farewell kiss can mean so much. You may find it comforting to bring a gift, a flower from the garden, or something of personal significance. You may wish to place letters or photographs in the coffin. We will willingly assist you in placing these and assure you they will remain undisturbed.

We have a skilled and very caring team working with us. We do our very best to present the deceased looking as natural as possible, as if in sleep. Many have found the experience of visiting the Chapel of Rest to be very helpful and reassuring. However, if you are unsure, a member of our staff will willingly talk this over with you in a sympathetic way, but the final decision will always be yours. Our staff will also come into the Chapel and remain with you if you so wish.

Please remember that making an appointment will help us to give you our full attention and support. This is especially important for visits planned outside of normal working hours.