Chapel of Rest
It is an intimate and quiet space that offers time for reflection, comfort and the saying of goodbyes.
We welcome family and friends to visit their loved one, with the permission of the family.
You can attend our Chapel of Rest by appointment during office hours, Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm. If you require a visit outside of those hours, please speak with your Funeral Director. We will always work with you to ensure you have the opportunity to say goodbye to your loved one.
Visiting your loved one is a deeply personal choice. We understand for many, this may be the first experience of losing someone, and thus contemplating a visit to the Chapel of Rest. Your dedicated Funeral Director is there to guide and support you with this decision, so please do discuss any uncertainties or questions you may have.
If you would be more comfortable, you can choose to have the coffin closed.
Our Chapel of Rest features soft lighting, scented candles, fresh flowers, and we can play soothing music if you wish.
While the term ‘Chapel’ may have religious connotations, our spaces are not associated with any particular religion and are specifically designed to be peaceful, comforting, and welcoming spaces for families of all faiths, religions, and cultures.
Our specialist team will prepare your loved one as per your wishes, and they will be resting in a coffin that you have previously selected with your Funeral Director. You will be escorted to the Chapel of Rest by one of our experienced team members, where you will have the opportunity to spend private, final time with your loved one.
What should my loved one wear?
We often get asked this question, but the choice of what clothes your loved one wears is yours. We can dress them in any clothing, whether that’s formal attire, comfy pyjamas or a summer dress – there are no restrictions. While we do request undergarments where possible, shoes are not always necessary. Alternatively, we can provide a gown.
Our specially trained team will dress your loved one with care and respect according to your wishes. Providing a photo can assist our preparations, so we can understand how they wear their hair and makeup or facial hair. We can shave facial hair and paint nails – but we would only ever do this upon your direction. Whatever your request, we will do our utmost to accommodate it.
If your loved one arrives still wearing jewellery, we can either remove it and return it to you or leave it on them. Additionally, you are welcome to bring jewellery for us to place on your loved one.
Can I place items in the Coffin with my loved one?
Yes, many families find great comfort in leaving special items and gifts in the coffin with their loved ones.
You might consider including a heartfelt letter, a card, or cherished photographs and drawings. Some families have added favourite tea bags, soft toys from grandchildren, precious jewellery, a handkerchief held in their hand, or even their beloved chocolates and sweets. We also offer a beautiful selection of hand-knitted hearts, please see below for more information. These mementos and keepsakes can hold significant meaning and happy memories.
There may be specific customs or cultural and religious reasons for including certain items, and we will always work with families to accommodate these wishes.
Deciding what to include in your loved one’s coffin is a deeply personal choice. We want the families we serve to feel at ease when including items that are meaningful to them and that honour the life of the deceased.
If you prefer, we can assist by placing the items in the Coffin for you.
Please note that some restrictions apply, particularly for Cremations, so always consult with your Funeral Director before leaving any items in the Coffin.
Intimate Services
Our Chapel also accommodates small memorial services, if you are looking for an intimate and personal service away from the more traditional church and chapel settings please speak with your Funeral Director, who can provide you with more information about the options available.
Heart to Heart
In our Chapel of Rest, we offer a lovely selection of hand-knitted hearts and flowers for families to place alongside their loved ones in the coffin.
Families can select a pair of hearts; one to accompany their loved one and another to take home as a treasured keepsake.
The families we support have shared how comforting and meaningful it is to share these special gifts with their loved ones. Although visiting a loved one in the Chapel of Rest can be an overwhelming experience, we have found that these heartfelt gestures have helped to put families at ease and provide great comfort.
These hearts have been lovingly crocheted and knitted and generously donated by our families and friends.
We want to take this moment to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who has dedicated their time to create these keepsakes. We are incredibly proud to be part of such a compassionate and thoughtful community.
