FUNERALS in Solihull will now be allowed to receive up to ten mourners, the council has announced.
In past weeks all funerals were permitted a maximum of six mourners, who must all be close relatives of the deceased, owing to social distancing guidelines.
Regional councils have now lifted the cap to ten attendees.
A spokeswoman for Solihull Council said: “Following discussions across the region, Solihull Council, along with the majority of councils in the West Midlands, will now be allowing up to ten mourners at funerals instead of the current six. Staff are contacting local funeral directors to let them know of the decision.
“Mourners are also welcome to film and share funeral services with those not able to attend – using media platforms such as Facebook Live – provided they have permission from the funeral applicant and the funeral officiant or minister.
“Solihull’s cemetery grounds continue to be closed to everyone else for the time being and access to the cemeteries is being managed by the Council’s security team to make sure that people abide by this decision.
“We realise this is very difficult for people but needs to ensure everyone’s safety and help to reduce the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus). Families may also wish to think about a celebration of life or a memorial after the pandemic has finished.
“The decision to restrict the amount of mourners at funerals was made following the Prime Minister’s announcement on Monday 23 March that all events – excluding funerals – should be stopped in order to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus). In response, Solihull Council immediately brought in new measures at its cemeteries and crematoria.”
