Welcome

Introduction
Unlike cemeteries where we might mark the death of someone by erecting a headstone, cremation can be more anonymous.  That is why local authorities offer various schemes to help people make a tangible statement about the grief they feel.  Memorials officers arrange sales, recording and maintenance of commemorative schemes - flowers, a small plaque or a donation to a charity - as well as the placing of memorials and scattering of the cremated remains.  The post exists in all types of authority except for county councils and may also be located in the bereavement services departments of the social services directorate.

Work Environment
This is usually an office situated in the grounds of a crematorium and cemetery.
The hours are standard at 37 per week and may include Saturday working.
Required dress is smart and sober and a black uniform may be provided.

Daily Activities
To assist people who are grieving, memorials officers have to:

• arrange sales of commemorative schemes from instruction and information received from clients, including the calculation and collection of fees payable;
• collate the appropriate forms and submit the documentation to a Medical Referee in time for the cremation to proceed as planned; 
• help clients choose a memorial from a range of commemorative schemes by correspondence, telephone or in person; 
• keep records and renewals of schemes and remove memorials when they expire; 
• order memorials from specialist firms and place, or fix them with screws, as requested; 
• accompany the mourners to the Remembrance Garden and assist them with the internment or strewing of cremated remains; 
• deal with any administrative business after the ceremony.

Skills & Interests
You must be a sensitive and caring person who knows when to be discreet and yet efficient, relieving distressed mourners of the burden of routine practical matters. This will entail having:

• good verbal and written communication skills; 
• proficiency in the use of IT equipment; 
• the ability to work effectively and accurately under pressure; 
• storing and retrieval of information skills; 
• a capacity for planning ahead; 
• tact, patience and understanding; 
• organisational skills.

Entry Requirements
This will depend on the nature of particular personal qualities as described, though GCSEs in English and Maths are usually required.  Perhaps more importantly, experience is the most crucial factor. Several years working with bereaved people and having previously dealt with the public, face to face and by telephone is desirable. You would also be expected to have had experience of keeping manual/computerised records and financial office work. Some understanding of various religious faiths helps, too.

Future Prospects & Opportunities
This is a fairly narrow field but promotion to Crematorium Superintendent, Bereavement Services Officer or Cemetery Inspector is possible with further qualification and experience.  There are also opportunities in private funeral services.

Further Information & Services
Federation of Burial & Cremation Authorities www.fbca.org.uk
Institute of Cemetery and Crematory Management www.iccm-uk.com

You may find further information about this area of work through Careers Wales (www.careerswales.com/) or in your local library, careers office or school careers library.