Regulation of funeral industry debated in Parliament

Sam Gallagher – of Gallagher Family Funeral Directors – says there is currently no requirement for firms in the sector to be a member of a trade association, and no regulation by the Government.

He is campaigning for change, and last year wrote to Keighley MP Robbie Moore over the issue.

Now Mr Moore has raised the concerns in the Commons.

He spoke during a debate organised by North Dorset MP Simon Hoare.

"Recent scandals in Hull and elsewhere have shaken public confidence in the funeral industry," says Mr Moore.

"Most people don’t even realise that anyone can legally open a funeral business with zero oversight.

"Families deserve to know that their loved ones are in safe hands.

"We are lucky to have brilliant local funeral directors like Gallagher’s that provide the highest standards of professionalism and compassion – and I'd like to thank Sam and the team for leading the fight for change.

"There is a clear need for proper regulation and I will be writing to the Health Minister to urge the Government to bring forward legislation as a matter of urgency."

Health Minister Dr Zubir Ahmed has said the Government will provide an interim update on regulation of the funeral sector by the end of this year, and a full response in 2026.

Sam says: "I'd like to thank Robbie Moore for raising this vital issue in Parliament. It’s encouraging to see the need for proper regulation now being recognised at a national level.

"When I speak with families and explain that our profession isn't currently regulated, their reaction is always one of shock. People are surprised to learn that, unlike the care sector which is overseen by the CQC, there is no continuation of regulatory oversight once someone has died. That lack of consistency leaves families vulnerable at an incredibly sensitive time.

"There are many dedicated funeral directors locally and across the country operating to the highest standards, guided by strong codes of practice through organisations such as the National Association of Funeral Directors and the Society of Allied Independent Funeral Directors.

"However, as we’ve seen in recent tragic cases, a small minority of rogue operators can cause enormous harm. That’s why regulation is so important, to protect grieving families and uphold the dignity of those who have died."