SAIF independent funeral directors

02/04/2026

Following today's significant news regarding the Legacy Independent Funeral Directors case, SAIF Executive Committee member Becky Horton, of Hortons Funeral Directors & Services in Hull, joined The World at One, BBC Radio 4 this afternoon to explain best practice in funeral directing.

Becky gave a superb interview, discussing the rigorous standards, care and transparency that define how reputable, SAIF independent funeral directors operate every day to support the bereaved.

If you missed the live broadcast, you can listen again on BBC Sounds.

📍 Show: World at One (Thursday, 2nd April)
🕐 Time: From approx. 13:20
🔗 Listen here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002tc01

It is more important than ever to showcase the integrity of our profession and the dedication of funeral directors across the UK who uphold the highest levels of trust and dignity.

The government hosts talks between 40+ countries about protecting shipping in the Strait.

02/04/2026

𝗥𝗼𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗵 𝗽𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘀 𝗴𝘂𝗶𝗹𝘁𝘆: 𝗮 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗦𝗔𝗜𝗙

The news from Hull Crown Court this morning is a poignant but significant milestone for the bereaved families affected by the Legacy Independent Funeral Directors case. Robert Bush has now entered guilty pleas for all 67 charges, including 30 counts of preventing a lawful and decent burial.

At SAIF, we thoroughly condemn these actions. They are a total betrayal of the trust families place in their funeral director and stand in stark contrast to the care, dignity and integrity that define the work of our 1,000 members across the UK.

This case has exposed clear gaps in the current voluntary model of regulation. SAIF is already working collaboratively with the Government and the NAFD to introduce a robust, mandatory framework through the UK Funeral Director Code.

Our mission is to ensure that every practitioner in the UK is held to a rigorous, statutory set of standards, ensuring that a tragedy of this nature can never happen again.

𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗽𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗲:

Legacy Independent Funeral Directors was not and has never been a member of SAIF.

All SAIF members are subject to a strict code of practice and a programme of unannounced inspections of their premises and mortuaries.

Our thoughts remain with the families in Hull and the wider community as they continue their journey towards justice and healing.

Further details on today's hearing can be found here: https://www.hulldailymail.co.uk/news/hull-east-yorkshire-news/legacy-funeral-directors-case-live-10897964

He faces 67 charges

29/03/2026

As AGM Weekend comes to a close, we were proud to see Gary Staker installed as SAIF’s new National President.

A dedicated member of the SAIF community, Gary steps into the role at an important time for the sector, and we look forward to the year ahead under his leadership.

🎥 Watch the video below to hear from Gary.

28/03/2026

A busy and productive day at the SAIF AGM, with members from across the UK coming together to shape the future of our sector.

Today saw the launch of our new national campaign on direct cremation — an important step in supporting independent funeral directors to clearly communicate value, choice, and local care to the families we serve. This is a conversation that matters, and one we are proud to be leading as a profession.

We now move into our next session, hearing from Chris Wilson, CEO of Golden Charter, sharing insights on the evolving funeral plan market and what it means for our members and their businesses.

Strong engagement, honest discussion, and a clear focus on the future — exactly what an AGM should deliver.

27/03/2026

We are watching with interest the CMA’s announcement today regarding investigations into online consumer reviews within the funeral and crematoria sector.

Trust is our profession's most precious asset. When a family is acutely vulnerable, they rely on the experiences of others to help them make the right choice. Genuine reviews matter because:

🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Families deserve an honest picture of the care and service they can expect.

📢 Digital marketing only works when the public believes what they see. Manipulated or staff-generated reviews undermine the hard work of the entire independent profession.

🙂 Our SAIF Code of Practice is built on transparency. True feedback drives better standards; misleading feedback only erodes trust.

As the voice of independent funeral directors, SAIF champions the highest levels of professionalism. We believe that genuine feedback - good or bad - is essential for maintaining the integrity of our sector and protecting the families we serve.

https://www.gov.uk/cma-cases/dignity-consumer-protection-enforcement-case

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is investigating Dignity Group Holdings Limited’s (‘Dignity’) compliance with the law on unfair commercial practices under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (DMCC Act) in relation to obtaining consumer reviews about crematoria.

27/03/2026

Members from across the UK are gathering today for the SAIF AGM Weekend – an important opportunity to come together as a profession.

Across the weekend, members will take part in education sessions, share ideas, and connect with colleagues from across the country, all while helping to shape the future direction of the association.

The AGM provides a key moment to reflect on the year gone by, discuss the challenges and opportunities ahead, and ensure members’ voices are heard.

We look forward to a productive and engaging weekend, and to welcoming members old and new.

18/03/2026

The Law Commission has just published its long-awaited report to modernise burial and cremation laws in England and Wales. The proposals tackle some important funeral profession challenges, including burial space shortages, direct cremation and uncollected ashes.

A key proposal allows funeral directors to finally return historic, uncollected ashes to crematoria. SAIF welcomes this but strongly opposes any suggestion that crematoria charge our members a fee for clearing an historic backlog they did not create.

Regarding direct cremation, SAIF supports the push for transparency but urges the Government to go further. National online providers must be required to disclose their full chain of third-party contractors so families know exactly who is caring for their loved ones.

Finally, we welcome the recommendation to extend the grave reuse timeline to 100 years, protecting families from unnecessary distress. Read our full summary of how these vital reforms impact independent funeral directors here: https://saif.org.uk/news/law-commission-publishes-proposed-reforms-to-burial-and-cremation-laws/

13/03/2026

🎥 Meet the New SAIF Scotland President

At the SAIF Scotland AGM in February, Ross Anderson was installed as President, taking over from Declan Maguire.

Ross shares a few words about the year ahead and his commitment to supporting independent funeral directors across Scotland.

Thank you to Declan for his leadership and dedication during his presidency, and best wishes to Ross as he begins his year in office.

09/03/2026

As his year as National President comes to a close, Ross Hickton reflects on a busy and rewarding time representing independent funeral directors across the UK.

Over the past twelve months Ross has met members, represented the profession, and championed the vital role of locally owned funeral homes in supporting families and communities.

Watch the video to hear Ross share his reflections as his presidential year with National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors comes to an end.

08/03/2026

Today on International Women’s Day, we celebrate the many talented, dedicated and compassionate women working across the funeral profession.

Through SAIF Women in Business, our members have created a space for connection, support and shared experience, helping to champion women across the independent funeral sector.

Thank you to Jo Parker and Helen Wathall for establishing the group and helping it grow into such a valuable part of the SAIF community.

Today we recognise the contribution of women throughout our profession and the important role they play in supporting families every day. 💐

02/03/2026

Neil Davis: The Digital Legacy

In an era where remembrance increasingly lives online, digital tributes are no longer an add-on — they’re part of the family experience.

Neil Davis, CEO of MuchLoved, joined the organisation in April 2024, bringing more than 20 years’ experience leading global digital agencies, including senior roles at Concentrix Tigerspike and Squiz.

His background is rooted in Customer Experience (CX) — helping major brands rethink how they connect with people online. At the SAIF AGM, Neil will share how those same principles can be applied within independent funeral directing.

This session will explore:

• How digital memorials can enhance — not replace — personal care
• What “big brand” CX thinking looks like in a funeral context
• Practical ways to ensure families feel supported online as well as in person

👉 Don’t miss this conversation at the SAIF AGM Banquet Weekend 2026!
🔗 More info & registration: https://saif.org.uk/agm-banquet-weekend-2026/

We look forward to seeing you there.

27/02/2026

Congratulations to Ross Anderson on his appointment as SAIF Scotland President, formally confirmed at the Scottish AGM in Glasgow last night.

Ross steps into the role at an important time for independent funeral directors across Scotland. His commitment to collaboration, professional standards and supporting members at every stage of their work will help shape the next chapter for SAIF Scotland.

Thank you to everyone who attended the AGM and contributed to a constructive and forward-looking evening. We look forward to working with Ross and the wider Executive in the year ahead.