Bringing someone into our care is not goodbye. It’s not the last time you or loved ones will see the person who’s passed. Yet we know this is a big fear families have – it’s your loved one and it’s your chance to say goodbye.
What’s possible
Visiting or viewing a loved one can be done at home, in our branch, or a place of worship.
From the time they’re in our care to the funeral, we’ll work with you to say goodbye for as long as you need. Some families pop in for less than a minute, others can spend hours and come back day after day.
If you’re visiting a loved one in our branch, you can book private solo visits or we can accommodate family groups.
Coffins can be open and it’s possible to leave books, keepsakes or other memorabilia during the visit. If a cremation is planned, we will return items that cannot be in the coffin to you.
Reasons to visit
Saying goodbye is important. It’s a final chance to pay your respects, share the advice you never got round to, confess something or just feel sad and angry. Or it’s a chance to thank someone for making a difference, share how much you’ll miss them and say “I love you” for the final time.
Having a moment to see the person who’s died in a coffin can help people accept the truth that they are dead. While that sounds odd, the reality and truth of death may finally settle by having a practical goodbye.
It can help with grief in later days, months or years.
Coffins can be open and it’s possible to leave books, keepsakes or other memorabilia during the visit. If a cremation is planned, we will return items that cannot be in the coffin to you.
We are here for those left behind as much as we are for the person who’s passed. If you need a shoulder to cry on, a hand to hold for courage, or want our help to set out afternoon tea, our professionals are here to support and guide you throughout.