Basics of Burials
Basics of Burials
Tuesday 13 October 2026 | 10:00am – 12:00pm | Online
This introductory course provides a practical foundation in the management and operation of cemeteries, focusing on compliance with the Local Authorities’ Cemeteries Order 1977 and related legislation. Designed specifically for clerks with little or no prior experience, it covers the key legal, administrative and operational responsibilities associated with burial services.
The session explores core topics including burial law, record keeping, exclusive rights of burial, legal transfers, and cemetery fees, alongside day-to-day considerations such as working with funeral directors, managing memorials, and dealing sensitively with members of the public. It also provides guidance on closed churchyards, forward planning, and accessing further sources of information.
Recognising that many clerks are part-time and rely on external providers such as grave diggers and funeral directors, the course takes a practical, real-world approach to help you confidently manage your responsibilities.
What to Expect?
This is a supportive, entry-level course delivered in a clear and accessible format, with a focus on practical application rather than technical detail.
During the session, you can expect:
Clear explanations of burial law and legal responsibilities
Helping you understand the framework you must operate within.Step-by-step guidance on key administrative processes
Including record keeping, managing burial rights, and handling legal transfers.Practical insights into day-to-day cemetery management
Covering fees, rules, memorials, and working with third-party providers.Real-life scenarios and common challenges
To help you feel more confident when dealing with sensitive situations and the public.Useful signposting to further resources
So you know where to turn for additional guidance after the course.
The session is informal and designed to allow questions throughout, ensuring you can relate the content directly to your own council’s circumstances.
Why Attend?
Managing a cemetery is a significant responsibility, both legally and emotionally. This course will give you the confidence and knowledge to carry out your role effectively and compassionately.
By attending, you will:
Build confidence in an area you may be new to
Gain a clear understanding of your duties without needing prior experience.Reduce risk and ensure compliance
Understand the legal requirements and avoid common pitfalls.Improve your day-to-day administration
Learn practical approaches to record keeping, fees, and processes.Feel better equipped to support your community
Handle sensitive situations with professionalism and care.Save time through greater clarity and structure
Know what needs to be done, when, and how.
Whether your council manages an active cemetery or is responsible for a closed churchyard, this course provides essential knowledge to help you carry out the role with confidence.
Requirements
We use Zoom for our training courses. You will need to download the Zoom application if you haven’t used it before https://bit.ly/3DeEeT5
If it has been a while since you last used Zoom, it’s recommended that you log in early as there may be automatic Zoom updates that will delay your entry to the course.
You will need a device that has a camera and a microphone. Minimum system requirements can be found here https://bit.ly/3Fj19uD
Please name yourself appropriately so you can easily be identified by the trainer. You can find out how to do this here https://bit.ly/3cj2jKi
Important note:
Our online training is live and interactive, you must be in a place where you can do this safely. Driving whilst attending our online training will result in you being removed and your council will be charged the full cost of the course.
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