Funeral Service Times August 2017 April 2019 | Page 3

3 Editor’s letter Established 2006 Managing editor Michael Northcott [email protected] Online Editor Shekina Tuahene [email protected] Editorial assistant Casey Cooper-Fiske [email protected] Production Assistant [email protected] Sales Patricia Northcott [email protected] Accounts [email protected] Tel: [phone] Subscriptions [email protected] Tel: [phone] Contributing writers: Paul Allcock, Benn Abdy-Collins, Philip Spicksley, Nick Pineger, Jessica Hanson Funeral Service Times is published monthly by: Mulberry Publications Ltd. London Office: Mulberry Publications Ltd. 154-160 Fleet Street London EC4A 2DQ Tel: [phone] Tel: [phone] www.funeralservicetimes.co.uk ISSN 2046-7273 The editor and publishers do not guarantee the accuracy of statements made by contributors or advertisers, or accept responsibility for any statement that they express in this publication. The opinion of the contributors may not necessarily be the opinion of the publishers. Articles are considered for publication on the basis that they are the author’s original work. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise, without the permission of the publishers. permission of the publishers. www.funeralservicetimes.co.uk T he knife crime problem in the UK is inescapable at the moment; as attacks seem to be on the rise, the number of people who know someone who has been affected appears to be growing. The problem no longer seems to be something which only impacts those living a certain lifestyle, we are steadily hearing of more people who we’d expect to not be victims to this kind of crime become one. Childhood bereavement charity Winston’s Wish gives an in depth guide on how adults can reassure, comfort and explain to the youth of society why such things may happen and help them grieve when such a tragedy occurs. See what they have to say on page 16. In this month’s issue, we also focus on coffins and caskets and the different options available depending on a person’s preferences. As non-traditional funerals see an increase in popularity, it can be expected that the kinds of funerary boxes chosen by clients will diversify even further as time goes on. Read more on this on page 20. While some people may want to plan every aspect of their funeral right down to the decorated coffin, others avoid the subject of their death completely. This is no surprise as, in general, death is still seen as a taboo subject in the UK. Whether that be because of fear, uncertainty or a lack of knowledge, Jessica Hanson from Avalon Funeral Plans explores the different reasons why someone may avoid planning their funeral. Find out more on page 30. I hope you enjoy this issue. Shekina Shekina Tuahene Online Editor, Funeral Service Times [email protected] APRIL 2019