02/08/2026
A message to the families we have cared for, those we are supporting today, and those who may need us in the future.
The recent court case involving former funeral director Robert Bush has left many people shocked, saddened and deeply concerned. Like so many across our profession, we have followed the proceedings with a heavy heart, and our thoughts remain with every family affected by the unimaginable distress and suffering caused.
No family should ever have to question whether their loved one has been treated with the utmost dignity, care and respect. The trust placed in a funeral director is one of the greatest responsibilities anyone can be given, and when that trust is broken, the impact is devastating.
At A. Wass Funeral Directors, we want to reassure the families and communities we have served for generations that the actions of one individual do not represent the values of our profession or the standards that the overwhelming majority of funeral directors uphold every single day.
For many of us, funeral directing is far more than a career. It is a vocation built on compassion, integrity and a genuine desire to support families through one of life’s most difficult moments. We are privileged to care for those entrusted to us, and we never lose sight of the responsibility that comes with that privilege.
We have long supported greater regulation within the funeral profession, believing that clear standards and accountability help protect bereaved families while recognising the exceptional work carried out by dedicated funeral professionals across the country.
As proud members of the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD), we are committed to maintaining the highest professional standards. Membership of the Association requires funeral directors to meet strict codes of practice, undergo regular inspections and continually demonstrate excellence in the care provided to both the deceased and the families they serve.
Our Managing Director, Paul Brown, is proud to serve as an Examiner for the National Association of Funeral Directors, helping to assess and support the next generation of funeral professionals. He has also recently completed a four-year term as President of the Nottingham, Derby & District Branch of the NAFD, reflecting his longstanding commitment to improving standards, education and professionalism throughout the funeral sector.
We are also proud to share that our qualified Funeral Directors do have a Licence to Practise issued annually by the British Institute of Funeral Directors (BIFD). This licence is only awarded following the completion and submission of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) records, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to maintaining and developing the highest levels of professional knowledge, skills and best practice.
Our family has served this community for many years, and throughout that time we have remained committed to treating every person in our care with the same dignity, compassion and respect that we would expect for our own loved ones. Every member of our team understands that behind every funeral is a family placing enormous trust in us, and that trust is something we work tirelessly to earn and protect.
If the recent events have caused you concern, we want you to know that our doors are always open. Whether you have questions about the care of a loved one, would like to understand our procedures, or simply wish to speak with a member of our team, you will always be warmly welcomed into any of our funeral homes where you can view all our facilities.
We remain committed to providing the highest standards of care, complete transparency, and unwavering support to every family who places their confidence in us.
From all of us at A. Wass Funeral Directors, thank you for the trust you continue to place in our family. We will never take that trust for granted, and we will continue to care for every individual with the dignity, kindness and respect they deserve.
