Bereavement Expert Consultant

We are seeking a highly experienced Bereavement Expert Consultant to support a Local Authority in the Midlands on a project-focused role. This specialist position involves providing expert guidance on all aspects of bereavement services, including cemeteries, crematoriums, funerals, religious practices, and UK death licensing and registration. The successful candidate will bring deep knowledge and operational experience in bereavement services, ensuring compliance with legislation and delivering high-quality, sensitive services.

This is a pivotal role in managing bereavement processes, driving improvement, and supporting project objectives aligned with the needs of the community and various religious practices.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide expert consultancy on cemetery and crematorium management, funeral services, and bereavement processes.
• Ensure full compliance with UK death licensing, registration laws, and local authority requirements.
• Advise on best practices and policies in delivering sensitive bereavement services across different religious and cultural practices.
• Lead or support key projects related to bereavement services, ensuring timely and effective delivery.
• Conduct thorough reviews and assessments of current operations and develop improvement strategies.
• Collaborate with internal teams, external partners, funeral directors, and religious groups to ensure the smooth running of bereavement services.
• Offer training and advice to council staff on bereavement processes, legislation, and sensitive cultural practices.
• Ensure risk management and health & safety standards are met across all bereavement services.
• Draft reports and present findings and recommendations to senior management and relevant committees.

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Significant experience working within bereavement services, including cemeteries, crematoriums, and funeral operations.
• Deep knowledge of UK death registration and licensing processes.
• Familiarity with a wide range of religious practices related to funerals and burials.
• Previous experience working within or consulting for Local Authorities in bereavement services.
• Strong project management skills with a track record of delivering successful projects in this sector.
• Excellent communication, sensitivity, and negotiation skills when dealing with bereaved families and diverse communities.
• Ability to work autonomously, making informed decisions under pressure.

Desirable:

• Relevant qualifications in bereavement services or project management.
• Previous experience of managing complex bereavement-related projects.

What We Offer:

• A competitive day rate of up to 750 per day.
• Flexible hybrid working, with 1-2 days on-site per week.
• An opportunity to make a significant impact on bereavement services at a Local Authority level.

This is a unique opportunity for a bereavement expert with a strong Local Authority background to influence and improve services that support families at a critical time.