Sandra Gregory works at B H Mears Funeral Directors and has received a special commemorative award for her twenty five years of service from her employer, Dignity Funerals.

Sandra discusses how the industry has changed over the years, she said: “When I first started as a Funeral Service Arranger at B H Mears, I was mainly managing the administration for the branch. As I learnt more about the industry, I began helping families to create the best funeral for their loved one and supporting them through the process. Since joining the profession, I think I’ve been involved with over 2,000 funerals.

“On an average day I get into work and answer emails or messages from the families that I look after, then I may meet a family to help arrange a funeral for their loved one. I make sure that I make it a priority to spend as much time as needed supporting a family in arranging the best funeral that we can for their loved one.

Looking back on her career, Sandra said: “One of the most memorable moments in my career, and undoubtedly one of the most difficult, was looking after my husband and conducting his funeral when he passed away. It was the hardest day of my career to have the honour to look after my husband and I will never forget that day, for many reasons.”

Thinking about how funerals and the end-of-life sector has changed over the years, Sandra said: “I think services are becoming less formal, I’ve noticed fewer people opt for what would have been traditional religious services. Families have more options available to them now, so each funeral really is unique.

“I never thought I would be where I am now when I first applied for the role, but I have found a career that I like and that I am good at.”