'Missing link' between thinking and talking about funeral wishes - Co-op

28 February 2024 , 09:50

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Less than half of people have openly talked about their funeral wishes with loved ones, according to a Co-op report (Image: PA Archive/PA Images)

Less than half, or 45% of people have talked about what they want for their funeral with the people close to them, a study has revealed.

The survey found that out of 10 people, more than 7 (72%) admitted that they don't have a will. Half of these people (51%), confessed it's just because they havent been able to find the time yet.

This research was carried out by by the Co-op and shows that more than one in five people (22%) think about their own passing as often as once a week, and more than half (55%) think about it every month. The report includes research by YouGov and is based on the opinions of over 16,000 adults across the UK and 18,000 Co-op members during autumn 2023.

The Co-op discovered only one out of three people (33%) are comfortable with chatting to loved ones about their own passing. Gill Stewart, managing director of Co-op Funeralcare, had this to say: "Our findings highlight a real missing link between thinking, talking and even planning.

"It can be uncomfortable to discuss planning for death and funerals with loved ones, especially for fear of upsetting them but we believe this is precisely why those conversations are crucial. We know that talking to loved ones now can help them later.

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She added: "Putting in place funeral plans, life insurance, a will or even a lasting power of attorney, can go a long way in safeguarding loved ones when the time comes. That's why really we encourage people to have open and honest conversations about their wishes with loved ones."

Lucy Harmer, CEO of charity Cruse Bereavement Support, said: "At Cruse Bereavement Support, we know that talking about death can ease anxiety, improve relationships, and help with grief. That's why we support the Co-op's initiative to urge people to plan ahead and share their funeral wishes with their families."

Lawrence Matheson