Decision details
AHI S289 Introduction of a Policy on Public Health Funerals (Hackney Public Dignity Funerals)
Decision Maker: Cabinet
Decision status: Recommendations Approved
Is Key decision?: No
Is subject to call in?: No
Decision:
RESOLVED:
That Cabinet:
· Agreed to the adoption of the policy to cover when and how a public health funeral will be provided.
· Agreed to the name of the policy and provision of such funerals to be called Public Dignity Funerals.
REASONS FOR DECISION:
The government guidance on public health funerals recommends a local policy be implemented to cover when and how these funerals will be provided. Although Hackney council provided these funerals there was no written policy to provide guidance as to when and how these will be provided.
DETAILS OF ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS CONSIDERED AND REJECTED:
Not to have a local policy- this will continue to lead to potential delays in determining when a funeral should be provided by the council which is contrary to the legal requirement for the deceased to be treated with dignity and respect.
To maintain the name public health funerals - although these funerals are provided in order to comply with the Public Health Act it was felt that the term Public Dignity Funeral better described the nature of the arrangements being made and the council’s commitment that all residents be treated with dignity and respect irrespective of their circumstances.
Publication date: 22/04/2024
Date of decision: 22/04/2024
Decided at meeting: 22/04/2024 - Cabinet
Accompanying Documents:
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