Scottish funeral homes could face unannounced inspections under new proposals

Businesses in the funeral sector could be subject to unannounced inspections and other measures under new proposals set to be considered by MSPs.

As part of the proposed Burial and Cremation (Inspection) (Scotland) Regulations 2025, burial authorities, cremation authorities, and funeral directors would be inspected.

Those who aren’t compliant will be supported by inspectors to make the necessary changes. However, they could be issued with enforcement notices, with deadlines for action.

A register of the relevant bodies and inspection information could be made public as part of the plans.

Scottish Ministers would be able to request an inspection to be carried out at relevant businesses.

The Scottish Government believes the introduction of the new regulations would ensure minimum standards are maintained to safeguard the dignity of the deceased and promote compassionate and professional care for the bereaved.

The draft is expected to be considered by the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee.

Public health minister Jenni Minto said: “Bereavement can be emotionally overwhelming and being able to engage with the practical issues and funeral arrangements can be very difficult. It is, however, something everyone is likely to experience at some stage in their life, whether it’s the death of a family member, a loved one, or a friend.

“The vast majority of funeral directors and the wider industry provide dignified and professional services, and these reforms will benefit the sector by ensuring it is not unfairly impacted by the failings of a few.

“These reforms have received widespread support within the industry and we will appoint additional inspectors to work with the sector to ensure best practice. Publishing inspection reports will lead to greater transparency and can help improve standards.

“Having confidence in the care and dignity given to our loved ones, along with the compassionate and professional treatment of those bereaved, can go some way to alleviating the sorrow of bereavement.”

Cremation authorities have been inspected since 2019, when the Cremation (Scotland) Regulations came into force.

Inspections of funeral directors and burial authorities will become statutory on March 1, 2025, the same date the Funeral Director Code of Practice and new burial regulations come into force.

Regulations were also laid out for burial grounds on November 14.