CBC news reported this morning the case of the ethical, moral, and business wrongdoings of a Northern Ontario funeral director who is facing 74 criminal charges related to improper burials. Although a rare occurrence, these reports only add fuel to the lack of confidence some people already have in funeral services.
It had me thinking that the Board of Funeral Services should consider creating their own Public Confidence Plan. Inspired by the Ontario Long Term Care Association (OLTCA), who announced today that they will designate the week of October 19 – 23 as their inaugural Long Term Care Week in Ontario. The week is designed to profile the sector’s value and contribution to the healthcare system.
Like the OLTCA’s upcoming Long Term Care Week, the event would be an opportunity to award professionals who have demonstrated leadership, innovation, and community service in funeral services. Members who contribute to advancing the profession – such as those who are researching, publishing, or teaching would be recognized and have their contributions on display. Best of all, the event would serve as an opportunity to involve the greater community in learning about the importance of funeral services, dispel myths, and engage people in having their questions answered.
In my experience, most people have a minimum of knowledge when it comes to funeral services, and I believe it is the lack of available or shared information that leads to this lack of confidence. Aside from the rare exception, there are human beings of great integrity doing amazing things for funeral services in North America. Natural burial sites are being developed, casket manufacturers are greening their technologies and products, software that uses social media has been created to help families memorialize their loved ones, and funeral professionals across the country are involved in an array of meaningful community services.
How would you like to see public confidence restored in funeral services?
Very true and good points! A Funeral Board Public Confidence Plan is just what is needed to help regain the trust of communities affected by wrongdoings, like the people of Mattawa, ON, who forever will be shadowed with uncertainty and doubt in those they trusted with the remains of their loved ones.