Families grieving the loss of a child will no longer have to meet the costs of their burial or cremation, as a result of a new government scheme.
Every year in England, an estimated 3,800 children die under the age of 18, and there are a further 2,700 stillbirths. Bereaved parents can find themselves facing bills of thousands of pounds, which vary widely across the country.
The Children’s Funeral Fund (CFF) will bring an end to this and provide them with practical support at a difficult time. The scheme aims to reduce the financial burden for families by reimbursing burial authorities, cremation authorities and funeral directors directly.
The fund will be available regardless of the family’s income, and will also include a contribution towards the cost of a coffin.
[Read More: An open letter to bereaved parents]
The news comes after Theresa May pledged to abolish children’s burial and cremation fees last year, and follows a cross-party campaign led by Swansea East MP Carolyn Harris after the death of her eight-year-old son, Martin.
“At a time of such unimaginable loss, no grieving parent should be faced with the stress and worry of finding the money to cover the costs of their child’s funeral,” said May. “I hope the Children’s Funeral Fund will bring an end to this and give families some comfort and support when they need it most.
“I would again like to pay tribute to Carolyn Harris and all those who have campaigned with such devotion and dignity on this issue.”
Kate Lee, chief executive of CLIC Sargent, said it was a “momentous day” for everyone who has supported the campaign for a Children’s Funeral Fund over the last two years. “Most importantly, this is for every parent who has been plunged into debt to pay for their child’s funeral,” she said.
“As one mum said, no one should ever face the pain that they can’t afford ‘the last gift you’ll ever give your child’. This Fund is in memory of every one of their children.”
Regulations are to be laid in parliament tomorrow (Monday 1 July) by Justice Minister, Edward Argar, ahead of the Fund coming into effect on 23 July.