Tempo de leitura:

7min

A funeral director plays a fundamental role in organising and providing funeral services to help families deal with the loss of loved ones. They are responsible for leaving the body in the best possible condition, as well as transporting the body wherever necessary. Coordinating the transport of the body, preparing the funeral site, dealing with the storage of remains (if applicable) and overseeing the processes involved in the funeral.

It is also the funeral director who sells urns and wreaths, and takes care of the bureaucracy, such as the paperwork required for burial or cremation.

To become a funeral director, you need to have some essential skills, as well as meeting the legal and regulatory requirements of the place where you want to work. You need to be able to deal with bereaved people and this requires sensitivity and empathy.

The ability to be organised and handle several responsibilities at the same time is important, as is having an understanding of funeral practices, including embalming procedures, local and national regulations and fundamental safety protocols.

Effective communication skills are very important when interacting with bereaved families, doctors, clergy and other professionals involved. Providing emotional support and guidance to bereaved families, assisting with decisions and preparing obituaries and funeral programmes. Dealing with the necessary paperwork and documentation, such as death certificates, burial permits and legal authorisations.

A high standard of ethics and respect for the privacy and dignity of the deceased and their families must be maintained. This includes proper treatment of the body and confidentiality. Dealing with bereaved people requires sensitivity and empathy. Agents must be able to offer emotional support and understanding to families at a difficult time.

In addition to these skills, it is important to check the legal requirements for becoming a funeral director in your region, which may include obtaining a specific licence and training at a recognised mortuary school. Generally, formal education in funeral science is required, and practical internships may be mandatory to gain experience.