A funeral guide for queer people, and those who support them

Some LGBTQIA+ people may ask, how can I be sure my wishes will be respected when I die? If you are a queer person, or are planning a funeral for a queer loved one and have found yourself asking this question, this booklet is for you. You may also find it useful if you work with queer people in a professional capacity.

This resource is a free download for everyone. 

‘Making informed choices when planning a funeral – A guide for queer people’ was written by funeral professional Ash Hayhurst in June 2019, to share with members of the public and other funeral professionals at Mortlake Crematorium’s Full Circle Festival. Ash hosted a stall with information about funerals for LGBTQIA+ people with Octavian Starr (Unboxd Diversity Solutions, Stonewall Housing) and Ava Richardson (LGBTQ Equality Weddings).

Please note that this guide was written before the Covid-19 pandemic. You can find the latest UK guidance at https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus

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What people say

The Queer Funeral Guide is vital reading for everyone involved in funerals.
Louise WinterFuneral Director & Founder, Poetic Endings
An indispensable resource for anyone working in the funeral industry. This guide is essential in understanding the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community at a difficult time.
Hannah Jackson-McCamleyFuneral Celebrant
A valuable resource which provides funeral professionals with a practical and no- nonsense toolkit to support the trans community
Jason MaidenDipFC, LGBT+ ally & funeral professional

Quick links to recommended resources

The Good Funeral Guide

The Good Funeral Guide is the UK’s ONLY not-for-profit independent information resource for funeral advice.

The Good Grief Trust

Help & hope in one place. Advice and support for bereaved people, links to local support services, and a national bereavement helpline.

UK Funerals and Memorials Online

Ceremony Matters' guide to having an online funeral during a pandemic, with a directory of celebrants who offer online services.

Switchboard LGBT+ Helpline

Information, support and referral service for LGBTQIA+ people. Phone, webchat and email helpline available.

NAFD Covid-19 advice

Dedicated website from the National Association of Funeral Directors. Resources, Support and guidance for funeral directors and bereaved families during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Opening Doors London

The UK's largest charity helping connect LGBTQ+ people over 50 with activities, events, support and information.

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info@queerfuneralguide.co.uk