Funeral Service Crew - A Meaningful Opportunity with Co-op

Embark on a career that makes a tangible difference in your community. This 6-month fixed-term contract as a Funeral Service Crew member with Co-op offers a unique opportunity to support families during their most challenging times, providing comfort and dignity in saying goodbye to loved ones. While no prior funeral industry experience is required, this role demands a compassionate and professional individual ready to undergo comprehensive training and embrace meaningful work.

Key Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• Comprehensive Training and Support: Co-op provides full training, ensuring you are well-equipped for all aspects of the role, even without prior experience. Ongoing support will be a cornerstone of your journey.
• Competitive Compensation and Benefits: Earn £12.79 per hour with a range of valuable benefits. These include an excellent pension scheme with up to 10% employer contributions, significant discounts on Co-op branded products and services, and pro rata holiday entitlement rising with service.
• Meaningful Work and Community Impact: This role offers a profound sense of purpose, directly contributing to the well-being of your community by helping families navigate difficult transitions.
• Flexible Working (with Considerations): The part-time, 15-hour per week schedule offers a degree of flexibility, with shifts typically falling between Monday and Friday, 8 am to 8 pm. However, it's important to note the inclusion of occasional night shifts and participation in a weekend on-call rota.
• Career Development Opportunities: As part of the Co-op, you'll have access to a wealth of career development opportunities, including apprenticeships, allowing for long-term growth within the organisation.
• Employee Support Systems: Access to an Employee Assistance Programme provides confidential advice and support 24/7. Additional benefits like virtual GP services and free eye tests contribute to overall well-being.
• Inclusive and Supportive Environment: Co-op is committed to building diverse and inclusive teams. You'll be joining a friendly and supportive environment where your contributions are valued.
• Financial Wellness Tool: The Wagestream app provides access to a percentage of your earned pay as you earn it, offering valuable financial management support.
• Streamlined Application Process: You can apply via mobile in a few simple steps with no CV required, making the initial application process accessible.

Key Considerations for Aspiring Candidates:

• Physical Demands of the Role: This position involves physical aspects, including manual lifting and carrying of coffins. While training and equipment are provided to ensure safety, candidates must be comfortable and capable of performing these duties.
• Direct Contact with the Deceased: A fundamental aspect of this role involves direct physical contact with the deceased. The amount of contact will vary depending on specific duties. It is crucial that applicants carefully consider their comfort levels with this responsibility before applying.
• Driving Requirements: A full manual UK driver's licence is a mandatory requirement for this position.
• IT Proficiency: While full training is provided, a degree of IT literacy and the confidence to use various devices and learn new applications will be beneficial for maintaining client management records.
• Emotional Resilience and Empathy: The role requires the ability to remain calm and compassionate in emotional circumstances, demonstrating a sensitive and empathetic approach to customer service.
• Attention to Detail: Strong accuracy and adherence to regulatory policies and processes are essential for maintaining accurate records and ensuring professional standards.
• Shift Work and On-Call Duties: While the core hours are weekday-based, the inclusion of occasional night shifts and participation in a weekend on-call rota should be carefully considered for work-life balance planning.
• Pre-Employment Screening: Successful applicants will undergo pre-employment screening, which includes a DBS check, adverse media checks, an occupational health questionnaire, and a review of social media activity. Any offer of employment is conditional upon the successful completion of these checks.

This Funeral Service Crew role at Co-op presents a unique chance to enter a sector where you can genuinely make a difference. If you possess the required resilience, empathy, and a commitment to service, this could be an exceptionally rewarding career step.