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Bereavement
03 February 2021
Lead MP
Grahame Morris
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
NHSEconomyEnergyAgriculture & Rural AffairsMental Health
Other Contributors: 2
At a Glance
Grahame Morris raised concerns about bereavement in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
MP Grahame Morris highlighted the importance of a bereavement standard to streamline account closure processes for grieving families, stressing the need for cross-governmental coordination. He emphasised the time-consuming and traumatic nature of dealing with multiple organisations after losing a loved one and called on the Government to introduce digital death certificates and statutory bereavement leave to ease these burdens. Morris cited Settld, Cruse Bereavement Care, and Sue Ryder's support in raising awareness about issues affecting grieving families.
Barnsley East
She agreed with Morris’s call for a bereavement standard to help those dealing with the administration of accounts after losing someone, especially considering industrial diseases like mesothelioma.
Robert Neill
Con
Croydon North
He highlighted his involvement in an all-party group on bereavement and stressed the importance of cross-governmental coordination to address issues like vaccination, funeral arrangements, and death registration services.
Government Response
The Minister acknowledged the importance of improving the bereavement process and supporting those dealing with loss. He noted the significant impact of the pandemic on bereaved families and highlighted ongoing cross-government efforts to support bereavement services. The Minister mentioned £4.2 million in additional funding for mental health charities and charities providing bereavement support, as part of a broader package announced by the Chancellor. He emphasised the work of regulators such as Ofgem and water companies to ensure compassionate treatment of consumers experiencing bereavement. However, he cautioned against hastily developed standardisation that could be counterproductive. The Minister committed to further collaboration with regulators and industry experts to develop better solutions for the bereaved. Regarding digital death certificates, he clarified that digital copies of death certification documents are being explored to provide more clarity and confidence for firms. He also mentioned Jack’s law on parental bereavement leave and pay as a positive step forward.
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