Shocking Lack of Regulation in Funeral Sector Sparks Calls for Urgent Action

A stark warning has been issued today about the lack of regulation in the funeral sector in England, with the chair of the David Fuller inquiry calling for urgent action to protect the public and ensure the dignity of the deceased, Sky News reports.

Sir Jonathan Michael, chair of the inquiry, has expressed deep concern over the absence of a statutory regulatory body overseeing funeral directors. He described the current situation as “shocking”, highlighting the fact that anyone can set themselves up as a funeral director, even operating from their home and storing bodies in their garage, without any oversight.

The inquiry was established to investigate how David Fuller, a maintenance supervisor, was able to commit sexual offences in the mortuaries of two Kent hospitals. The first phase of the inquiry, published in November 2023, uncovered “serious failings” at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, enabling Fuller’s crimes.

The second phase of the inquiry is now exploring the broader national picture in the NHS and other settings, including funeral parlours.

Sir Jonathan’s interim report, published today, calls for a robust regulatory regime that would ensure proper care and security in the funeral sector.

“We need a system that prevents abuse and upholds the dignity of the deceased,” he said.