Funeral Arranger - 6 Month Fixed Term Contract reference: 1060442

This review offers an insightful look into the Funeral Arranger role advertised as a 6-month fixed-term contract with Co-op. This opportunity presents a unique chance to enter a vital service sector, providing meaningful support to families during sensitive times. We'll explore the advantages and key considerations for potential candidates, guiding you in assessing if this role aligns with your career aspirations.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Comprehensive Training and Support: A significant advantage is that prior funeral industry experience is not required. Co-op provides full training and ongoing support, equipping you with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the role. This makes it an accessible entry point for career changers or individuals seeking a new direction.
• Meaningful Work and Community Impact: This role offers a profound sense of purpose. You will be instrumental in helping families navigate difficult periods and create fitting tributes for their loved ones. This contribution to your community can be incredibly rewarding.
• Competitive Compensation and Benefits: The position offers a competitive hourly rate of £13.01. Beyond the salary, candidates will benefit from an excellent pension scheme with up to 10% employer contributions, significant discounts on Co-op branded products (30%) and other brands (10%) in food stores, as well as discounts on other Co-op products and services. Additional benefits include pro-rata holidays (rising with service), access to an Employee Assistance Programme, virtual GP services, and free eye tests.
• Flexible Working and Accessibility: The role is part-time, requiring 20 hours per week, with a consistent Monday to Friday schedule from 9 am to 1 pm. This predictable structure can be ideal for those seeking a better work-life balance or balancing other commitments. Furthermore, the application process is designed to be simple and accessible, allowing for mobile applications without the need for a CV.
• Valuable Skill Development: You will gain experience in client relationship management, communication (both in-person and over the phone), administrative tasks including digital record-keeping and invoicing, and maintaining professional environments. The role also involves basic IT proficiency and adherence to regulated processes.
• Supportive Work Environment: Co-op emphasizes a friendly, supportive team atmosphere and fosters an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity.
• Financial Wellbeing Tools: Access to Wagestream, a money management app, allows employees to access a percentage of their earned pay before payday, offering a useful financial tool.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Emotional Resilience and Empathy: The core of this role involves supporting individuals through grief. High levels of empathy, discretion, and care are paramount. Candidates should be prepared for emotionally demanding situations and possess the ability to remain composed and compassionate.
• Physical Aspects of the Role: While full training and equipment are provided, the role does involve manual handling of coffins and the deceased. Candidates must be able to comfortably carry out these physical elements, understanding the importance of safe working practices.
• Attention to Detail and Accuracy: The job requires meticulous attention to detail to ensure accurate documentation, client records, and adherence to regulatory policies and processes. Errors could have significant implications.
• Adaptability to Technology: You will be working with various digital systems, including computers, tablets, and smartphone applications, for client management, arrangements, and invoicing. A willingness and ability to learn and effectively use new technology are essential.
• Independent Working: There will be times when you are the sole person in the branch. This requires a degree of self-reliance, responsibility, and the ability to manage your tasks independently.
• Fixed-Term Contract: It is important to note that this is a 6-month fixed-term contract. Candidates seeking long-term, permanent positions should consider this duration when evaluating their career path.
• Referral of Specific Services: The role involves referring clients for funeral plans to dedicated Funeral Plan Arrangers, indicating a collaborative approach rather than direct sales of these specific products within this position.

Guidance for Your Career Path:

The Funeral Arranger role offers a unique pathway for individuals who are compassionate, organized, and possess strong interpersonal skills. If you are seeking a career where you can make a tangible difference in people's lives and contribute positively to your community, this opportunity is worth serious consideration. The comprehensive training provided significantly lowers the barrier to entry, making it an excellent stepping stone into the caring professions or the funeral service industry. While the fixed-term nature of the contract means it might be a role to gain experience and explore a new field, the skills acquired—such as empathy, communication, digital literacy, and administrative accuracy—are highly transferable across many industries. For those looking for a role that combines a sense of purpose with a supportive and structured work environment, this Funeral Arranger position presents a compelling opportunity.