Just wanted to know what the etiquette is for tipping a funeral directors? My mum passed away at the end January from Covid related causes after being in hospital for 4 weeks. Originally, we approached a well know directors on Lordship Lane- as mum died with Covid related causes the service they were offering was limited and to be honest, not fit for a dog. Not allowed to put any items in the coffin, could only have one car, not allowed to visit her, they said they wouldn?t even dress her (or let us do it) but instead said they could lay clothes on top of her. All the while, still charging the normal rate. On top of this, the lack of customer service and empathy from the person we dealt with was just shocking. This disheartened us so much. We were expecting some restrictions but nothing like this. After calling around a few of the bigger chains we were recommended a directors in SE16. After speaking with them and explaining the service we had been offered, they we?re shocked and appalled. Based on current government advice these restrictions that were put in place were solely for the purpose of making things easier for themselves. It really was a case of making the most amount of money for very little work. The new directors are a chain too and are responsible for 100s of funerals a week, so I can?t even see availability or demand being a justification for the lack of service. Anyway, the new funeral directors have gone above and beyond and have done absolutely everything we have asked to help give my mum the send off she deserves. No restrictions, offering everything you?d expect from a funeral directors, all the while doing it in a covid secure manner. No ask has been too big or too small. Most important they have treated my mum and my family with so much respect and dignity. Finding the new directors was so comforting and they will never truly know how grateful we are. Oh so back to my original question. Do we tip? If so how much? If not, what is an appropriate gift? Many thanks
