Crematorium fees hike defended by GBC

Fees for services at Guildford Crematorium have increased during the Coronavirus pandemic at the second highest rate in the country.

As the outbreak continues and families struggle to cover the cost of providing funeral services for loved ones, local councils are pressing ahead with prices rises, despite reduced services.

Cremation fees at Guildford Crematorium have risen by £115 this year, the second highest rise in the country. The largest rise was seen in Cornwall, which has hiked the price by £147.

The move comes despite social distancing measures which for three weeks at the height of the pandemic meant service times were cut from 45 minutes to 30, with only 17 family mourners able to attend.

Several local authorities across the country, including Oldham and Coventry, have cut their fees in light of the reduced service their crematoria are able to provide.

Guildford's Lead Councillor for the Environment, Cllr James Steel, defended the price increase.

He said: "During the Coronavirus pandemic our newly rebuilt crematorium and team of dedicated staff have played a critical role in managing excess deaths and supporting the bereaved. The service implemented government guidance to ensure families were able to say goodbye to loved ones in a respectful and dignified way.

"Between 21 April and 8 June, service times were shortened, from 45 minutes to 30 minutes, and our prices were reduced pro rata to maintain the same cost per minute. We also offered free webcasts of services for those not able to attend the service due to the restrictions. Services have now returned to their normal 45-minute duration, with 17 mourners able to attend.

"Service charge increases, the first price rises in two years, were adopted by Full Council in February and reflect our substantial investment in the new building and facilities including courtyard gardens and reflection pool. This is an extremely difficult time for many of our residents, especially those who have lost family members and friends during the outbreak, and our thoughts remain with those families."