The UK’s funeral industry has experienced a notable 28% increase in the number of funeral directors over the past decade. This growth is largely attributed to the aging population, with nearly one in five people in England and Wales aged 65 or over, showcasing an amplified demand for funeral services.
- The number of people aged over 65 in England and Wales has surged by 20% in the past ten years.
- The presence of more funeral directors is now visible on the high streets, reflecting societal trends.
- Lack of statutory regulation allows easy entry into the profession, facilitating this growth.
- Voluntary regulations exist, but firms can choose to operate outside this framework, raising concerns.
The UK’s funeral industry is witnessing significant growth, evident from a 28% rise in the number of funeral directors over the last decade. This increase correlates with demographic changes, as there is now a larger proportion of the population aged 65 and over. Such trends indicate an escalating demand for funeral services to cater to this growing segment.
In 2014, there were approximately 4,015 funeral directors, a number that has risen to 5,125 in 2024, reflecting a 28% increase. The visibility of funeral directors on the high streets has increased, and this societal change is even reflected in popular media such as television soaps.
The surge in funeral directors has been partly enabled by the absence of statutory regulation in the funeral industry, as pointed out by Andrew Judd, CEO of The National Association of Funeral Directors. He noted, “At the moment anyone can set up as a funeral director… there are no barriers to entry…” This lack of regulation allows individuals to enter the profession easily, although it poses potential risks due to the potential for operations outside scrutiny.
While many funeral directors voluntarily align with industry bodies such as the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) and the National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF), not all are obliged to join these organizations. Such voluntary regulation means some funeral firms operate without oversight, leading to concerns about the quality and accountability of services offered.
The substantial growth in funeral directors is a clear reflection of societal shifts and regulatory landscapes, though it raises questions about oversight and accountability in the sector.
