Co-op Funeralcare

25/11/2025

Christine, a dedicated Funeral Arranger at our North Shields funeral home, recently helped a local family cherish the memory of their loved one in a beautifully personal way. Using carefully selected items of clothing, she arranged for two bespoke memory bears to be created — each stitched with love and crafted to preserve the warmth, style, and spirit of the person they represent.

The family said the bears brought comfort during a difficult time, offering something tangible to hold onto while honouring treasured memories. Christine describes the keepsakes as “a gentle way to keep someone close, even after they’re gone.”

Memory bears, along with a range of other personalised memorial items, are available for anyone wishing to create a lasting tribute.

If you’d like to explore these options or discuss ideas that reflect your loved one’s story, you’re warmly invited to visit any of our funeral homes. Our team is always here to guide you with care and compassion.

07/11/2025

Funeral Director Becky Haig from Co-op Funeralcare, North Shields, recently helped to arrange a heartfelt farewell for Doreen, affectionately known to everyone as Little Dot. A woman remembered for her warmth, laughter, and love of all things Cadbury purple, her service was a reflection of her colourful spirit.

To honour her memory, the Co-op team incorporated her favourite hue throughout the day — from floral tributes to the ties worn by staff, each a rich shade of Cadbury purple. It was a simple yet meaningful gesture that brought smiles and comfort to her loved ones. Becky Haig said, “Every person deserves a goodbye that truly reflects who they were. It’s the small details — a favourite colour, song, or personal touch — that help families say farewell in a way that feels right.”

Doreen’s service was a celebration of life, filled with laughter, stories, and love, reminding everyone that a funeral can be as unique as the person it honours. For Becky and the North Shields Co-op Funeralcare team, it was a privilege to help create a goodbye that was as special as Little Dot herself.

03/11/2025

The team at Wallsend Co-op Funeralcare has once again captured the community’s hearts with their beautiful Remembrance Day window display. Each year, locals eagerly await the tribute, and this year’s display is one of the most striking yet.

Featuring a handcrafted poppy dress, a symbolic cross, and a cascading poppy curtain, the display stands as a heartfelt reminder of those who gave their lives in service. The stunning arrangement has been made possible through the generous support of the local community, who contributed hundreds of knitted poppies to help bring the vision to life.

The team takes great pride in creating something meaningful each year. “It’s a real community effort. Every poppy represents love, remembrance, and gratitude,” they said.

Passersby have already been stopping to admire the display, many leaving messages of thanks and reflection. The Wallsend Co-op Funeralcare team says they are deeply touched by the response and honoured to continue this important tradition of remembrance.

Lest we forget.

31/10/2025

At Coop Funeralcare in Wallsend, Funeral Arranger Karen has gone the extra mile to make a recent farewell truly personal. When creating the order of service for Sheila, a lifelong Wallsend resident, Karen chose to feature a vintage photograph of Wallsend High Street — the very place where Sheila would have done her shopping years ago.

This thoughtful touch transformed the order of service from a simple booklet into a heartfelt reflection of Sheila’s life and roots. Friends and family will recognise familiar landmarks on the cover, sparking shared memories and stories of the community Sheila loved so dearly.

Karen explained, “It’s about capturing the essence of a person — what made them who they were. For Sheila, Wallsend wasn’t just where she lived; it was part of her identity. Including the old photo brought that connection to life.”

Coop Funeralcare Wallsend continues to focus on creating services that celebrate individuality. From bespoke music choices to personal mementos and meaningful imagery, the team ensures every detail reflects the person being remembered.

Through touches like these, Karen and the team remind families that funerals aren’t just about saying goodbye — they’re about honouring a lifetime of memories and the places that helped shape them.

31/10/2025

We have a range of funeral plans with up to £250 off, plus our members save even more. However you choose to say goodbye, we help you own it 💙

Offer valid 29.09.2025-28.11.2025 (inclusive). See https://www.coop.co.uk/funeralcare/terms/funeral-plans-promotion for more details. UK residents, excludes NI, new customers only. £1 joining fee applies. For Membership T&Cs, see https://www.coop.co.uk/terms/membership-terms-and-conditions

29/10/2025

Whitley Bay Co-op Funeralcare has proudly supported this year’s Edie Smart Cup by donating luxury hampers to be raffled off, helping to raise vital funds for two lifesaving charities — the Great North Air Ambulance Service and the RNLI.

The donation was organised through a partnership between Chris Henderson, Funeral Director at Co-op Funeralcare Whitley Bay, and Ceri Finn, Co-op Member Activator. Their efforts aimed to boost fundraising at the charity football event, which brings together local teams and supporters in memory of Edie Smart.

“The Co-op is all about supporting our communities,” said Chris Henderson. “We’re delighted to contribute to such an inspiring local event that raises money for organisations that make a real difference.”

The Edie Smart Cup is a cause which hopes to raise the much needed funds following the tragic loss of local girl Edie Smart. Thanks to contributions like those from Whitley Bay Co-op Funeralcare, this year’s event will raise much-needed funds for both charities and strengthen the community bonds that make the North East so special.

28/10/2025

Thank you for sending in such a lovely memory, the harmonica is such a soulful instrument 🎶

If anyone else would like to share a memory of a loved one, please do comment below and we may be able to create a remembrance pebble specifically for you 💙

28/10/2025

Two members of the Wallsend Co-op Funeralcare team have been going above and beyond their day jobs to support families in need. Karen, Funeral Arranger, and Becca, Funeral Director, recently organised a heartfelt donation drive to support the local baby bank — providing essential items for parents struggling to make ends meet.

The pair collected nappies, wipes, baby food and other essentials from colleagues and members of the community, delivering the donations directly to the baby bank to help local families through difficult times.

“It’s such a simple way to make a real difference,” said Karen. “The baby bank does incredible work supporting families who are facing real hardship, and we wanted to show that our funeral home isn’t just here for people in times of loss — we’re here for our community every day.”

Becca added, “We see firsthand how strong this community is when people pull together. Being able to give something back and support local parents is a privilege.”

Wallsend Co-op Funeralcare has a long tradition of community involvement, regularly supporting local causes, charities, and events. Their latest effort highlights the compassionate spirit at the heart of Co-op’s values — care, community, and connection.

The team are already planning their next collection and hope to encourage more local people and businesses to get involved.

“Every little bit helps,” said Karen. “Together, we can make sure no family in Wallsend goes without the basics.”

27/10/2025

When a loved one has spent their life on the waves, it feels only right that their final farewell reflects that deep connection to the sea. Recently, Co-op Funeralcare Whitley Bay helped create a moving and deeply personal tribute for a local man who proudly served in the Royal Navy.

To honour his naval service, the team organised a touching boat-themed send-off. His coffin was adorned with bespoke floral arrangements crafted in the shape of an anchor and a boat — powerful symbols of his life’s journey and devotion to duty. Shades of blue, white, and gold blooms brought the maritime theme to life, while family and friends gathered to share stories of his adventures on the open water.

“Personal touches make all the difference,” said the team at Co-op Funeralcare Whitley Bay. “Funeral flowers can tell a person’s story — whether it’s through a favourite colour, a meaningful shape, or a nod to their passions.”

The boat tribute was not only a celebration of his service but a reminder that every farewell can be as unique as the life it honours. Through care, creativity, and compassion, Co-op Funeralcare Whitley Bay continues to help families create meaningful goodbyes that truly reflect their loved ones

24/10/2025

At Co-op Funeralcare in North Shields, Funeral Director Becky Haig believes every funeral should reflect the life and personality of the person being remembered. Recently, she had the privilege of arranging a service for a lady who truly loved sparkle — and Becky ensured her farewell shone just as brightly as she had in life.

The family wanted something that captured their loved one’s vibrant spirit, so Becky helped them choose a black glitter coffin, elegant yet full of personality. As the light caught its surface during the service, it reflected hundreds of tiny sparkles — a perfect tribute to a woman known for her warmth, humour, and love of all things that glittered.

To honour her memory in her own small way, Becky chose to wear black sparkly boots on the day of the service — a subtle but meaningful gesture that the family immediately noticed and deeply appreciated.

“It’s those little personal touches that make all the difference,” Becky said. “Every person deserves a send-off that’s as unique as they were. For this lady, sparkle wasn’t just a style — it was who she was.”

The service was a touching reminder that funerals don’t have to be sombre. With care, creativity, and attention to detail, they can celebrate individuality — one sparkle at a time.

24/10/2025

The team from Co-op Funeralcare Whitley Bay has strengthened its community ties with a visit to Crawford Park Bowls Club, where they presented a cheque and donated new equipment to support local members.

Funeral Arranger Shirley Wright, Funeral Director Chris Henderson, and Funeral Service Manager Gavin Chapman-Galloway were warmly welcomed by club members during their visit. The donation will help the club continue providing a friendly, active space for people across the Whitley Bay area.

Shirley said, “At Co-op Funeralcare, we believe in giving back to the communities we serve. Crawford Park Bowls Club brings people together, supports wellbeing, and embodies the spirit of Whitley Bay — we’re proud to show our support.”

Club Secretary Brian expressed his gratitude, adding, “We’re delighted with the donation and really appreciate Co-op Funeralcare’s involvement. It’s great to see a local business taking such an interest in our community.”

Gavin Chapman-Galloway added, “Community is at the heart of what we do. Whether through our services or local initiatives like this, our goal is to make a positive difference every day.”

The gesture reflects Co-op Funeralcare’s ongoing commitment to supporting local groups and fostering connections that help keep community spirit alive.

24/10/2025

We’re proud to be supporting local primary schools by donating our reflective Be safe, Be seen armbands to help keep children safe when travelling to school as the days get darker.

Find out more by contacting your local Funeral Home https://www.coop.co.uk/funeralcare/funeral-directors

23/10/2025

Colleagues from North Shields Coop Funeralcare recently visited a local school as part of the “Be Safe, Be Seen” road safety campaign — an initiative designed to remind children of the importance of staying visible and alert when out and about, especially during the darker months.

The team delivered an engaging and educational session to pupils, helping them understand how simple actions can make a big difference in keeping them safe on the roads. Using practical demonstrations, reflective clothing, and real-life examples, the session highlighted how wearing bright or reflective clothing can help drivers see pedestrians and cyclists sooner, reducing the risk of accidents.

Children were encouraged to think about the choices they make when walking or cycling — from where they cross the road, to how they make themselves visible in low light. Each pupil also received a “Be Safe, Be Seen” reflective item to take home, helping them put what they learned into practice.

Becky Haig and Gemma Allerdyce, who led the visit, said:

“As a Funeralcare team, we see first-hand the devastating impact road accidents can have on families and communities. That’s why we’re passionate about helping to prevent them through education and awareness. The ‘Be Safe, Be Seen’ campaign is about making sure young people understand that being visible really can save lives.”

The visit was warmly received by both pupils and staff, who praised the team’s positive and practical approach.

22/10/2025

Congratulations to The Good Grief Trust's CEO and Founder Linda Magistris on receiving an OBE from Prince William.

We’re proud to work with a charity that’s made such a meaningful difference to our clients and communities. Linda’s dedication to improving bereavement support has helped countless families find comfort and connection during the hardest times.

A truly well-deserved honour 💙

Good morning,

Today we are very proud to share the first official photograph of our CEO and founder Linda Magistris meeting His Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales, at Windsor Castle.

Linda received her OBE earlier this month for services to the bereaved.

Linda said:

'These past 11 years since my partner Graham died have been incredibly challenging in many ways, but we have pushed through and driven key national initiatives, which are now thriving and helping many who are bereaved up and down the country.

We will continue to drive our vision forward, and I am thrilled that we have grown in strength, in determination, in support and most importantly in our community, where so many have joined our cause, for which I am eternally grateful’

🧡☂️

20/10/2025

Kate’s husband pre-planned his funeral so everything was taken care of. Because planning ahead means you can own how you say goodbye 💙

17/10/2025

We help you find the goodbye that feels true to your loved one 🤍

To see our full range visit https://spr.ly/6189A2Rhd

16/10/2025

We have strengthened our pioneering pregnancy loss policy by doubling paid leave from five to ten days, reinforcing our commitment to support colleagues through the bereavement and grief of pregnancy loss.

To see our full pregnancy loss policy, visit: https://colleagues.coop.co.uk/pregnancy-loss-policy

14/10/2025

Sometimes it’s the little things we miss the most. Thank you for sharing this wonderful memory with us.

If anyone else would like to share a memory of a loved one, please do comment below and we may be able to create a remembrance pebble specially for you.

10/10/2025

Our funeral homes are hosting lots of events in their local communities, make sure to attend any happening near you 💙

10/10/2025

Today is World Mental Health Day so we’re honouring the importance of mental wellbeing especially for those navigating grief and loss 💙

We understand that bereavement affects everyone differently. Whether you're remembering a loved one, supporting someone through a difficult time, or simply trying to get through the day, you’re not alone.

Let’s keep the conversation going. Let’s support one another ✨

10/10/2025

Celebrating Black History Month

This month, our teams across North Shields are coming together to celebrate Black History Month — a time to reflect, learn, and honour the incredible contributions of Black people throughout history and today.

Across our workplaces, colleagues will be attending a series of talks and discussions focused on why we celebrate Black History Month, exploring its origins, significance, and the impact it continues to have in shaping a more inclusive future.

These sessions are an opportunity to raise awareness, share stories, and inspire meaningful conversations that celebrate diversity and equality. By learning from the past, we can continue building a workplace — and a world — where everyone’s voice is valued and represented.

Together, we celebrate Black history, embrace the present, and look forward to a future driven by unity, respect, and progress.

09/10/2025

Today marks . If you’d like to, please share your baby’s name below so we can remember them with you💟

29/09/2025

Up to £250 off funeral plans, plus Co-op Members save even more*
Offer ends 28 November 2025. T&Cs apply.

Choose from Direct Cremation, Simple, Bronze, Silver or Gold plans, and spread the cost with flexible payment options.
However you choose to say goodbye, we help you own it.
Visit coop.co.uk/funeralplans to find out more.