A FUNERAL firm has joined forces with agony aunt Claire Rayner in an inquiry launched to rethink funeral services for the 21st century. Co-operative Funeral Services in Sea Street, Herne Bay, is urging local people to help in an initiative aimed at making funerals a more special and less fearful experience.

It follows the first meeting of the Funeralcare Forum, chaired by author and broadcaster Mrs Rayner, which is inviting public comments and suggestions. The forum is made up of 10 organisations whose membership has experience of funerals, including the Co-operative Group.

Mrs Rayner said: "People have a natural reluctance to confront their own death and the death of a loved one but every funeral should be special. If we can learn about the options and talk frankly with our relatives, we will get the funeral of our choice."

The Co-operative's initiative will look at regulations, support for the bereaved and information gaps in the funeral process, as well as possible new forms for the funeral ceremony. Regional manager for the Co-operative Group Barbara Binding said: "Funerals need to move with the times in response to people's changing needs."

Comments can be made to the Funeralcare Forum on freephone 0800 7812212 or at www.funeralcare.co-op.co.uk