Funeral Arranger Review

My role is extremely varied from day to day, each day changes depending on the needs of our clients. It typically starts with meeting a bereaved family, going through the funeral arrangements and their wishes with them, booking any required churches/crematorium and ministers/celebrants. Every part of a funeral is arranged down to the last minute.

I have learnt many new skills and also improved my existing ones. I feel my skills at dealing with our bereaved families started off as good but they have got better and better the longer I have been in the role. My organisation skills have also got better and my time management has improved greatly.

I really enjoy the programme, more than I thought I would. It is easy to follow, the information is relatable and my coach is very approachable. I feel once completed, my knowledge around the funeral industry will be useful not only to me, but also my clients and also my employer.

I think the programme is well structured, once you know your units you'll be working on and you understand how you work through your workbook and also the assessment criteria it all fits into place. The interactive workbooks are useful for you to make notes on as you work through them

If I require support from my employer I am sure they will be more than willing to provide it. I haven't needed any support since starting my programme as they are already aware I need to set time aside to work on my apprenticeship. My manager is approachable on every other aspect of my job.

My coach is very helpful and approachable. I do not hear from her constantly, which works for me as I don't need that. She sets me work to complete, not too much but enough to challenge me and I submit it ready for our next meeting for us to discuss it

I think it will give me more confidence in completing my role. I think the confidence will show to my clients as well which will make them more confident in the service my employer and I am providing. It will also allow me to gain further knowledge on parts of the sector that interest me further.

Yes, we hold community events for the public which we are encouraged to attend. We also get involved in events organised by local charities, churches and the public. We also socialise as a regional area and attend professional talks and meetings to develops our skills and relationships with other people within the sector.

Yes

I think the Co-op is a great place to work if you are strong headed and thick skinned. It is a difficult job, with many stresses and tests. However it is a job I feel privileged to do and I'm very proud of what I do. You get alot of job satisfaction.

I would say stay true to yourself, be who you are and be honest. If the job is right for you you'll be successful in your application. If you get it, it's because your recruiter has seen something in you that will benefit the Co-op so take pride in that