FUNERALS have been live-streamed for mourners at Dunfermline Crematorium since Monday.

Fife Council has started providing free webcasts from funerals at its crematoria in Kirkcaldy and Dunfermline.

The new system has been in place since 11 May. The secure webcasts are being provided free of charge so that family members and friends who are unable to attend the service due to COVID-19 restrictions can watch from the safety of their homes.

Recently, large numbers of mourners had been gathering in the crematorium grounds.

In line with Scottish Government guidance, funerals are currently limited to small numbers of immediate family members to help stop the spread of Covid-19.

Social distancing restrictions continue to apply at funerals to safeguard bereaved families and staff, with the number of mourners at funerals limited to a maximum of six members of the immediate family of the deceased.

Councillor Craig Walker, convener of the council's assets, property and facilities committee, said: "We know this is an incredibly difficult time for everyone, more so for those who have lost loved ones.

"We realise the current funeral restrictions are extremely tough for bereaved families and we are grateful for their support during these unprecedented times. We are pleased that we are now able to provide this live streaming service for mourners.  

"We hope that this will provide some comfort to families and friends, who will now be able to take up the live-streaming service regardless of their circumstances.

"With many people self-isolating, the new equipment allows them to watch the crematorium funeral service from home.

“We understand the importance of providing this opportunity for families and friends to connect with each other at these most difficult of times."

Liz Murphy, bereavement services manager, Fife Council, added: “We anticipate that webcasting will continue long into the future, and we will continue to improve the quality of our broadcasts.

"Unfortunately, friends and relatives can miss a ceremony for many reasons. Also, for many people now, friends and families are spread out across the globe, which can make it difficult to come together to mourn the loss of a loved one.

"We hope that our new live-streaming service will offer the opportunity to bring friends and families together to help mark the passing of their loved ones."