Police have returned in force to Legacy Independent Funeral Directors on Hessle Road in Hull, where 34 bodies were removed following reports of “concern for care of the deceased”. Humberside Police said that two people have been arrested on suspicion of “prevention of a lawful and decent burial, fraud by false representation and fraud by abuse of position”, and forensics officers dressed in white protective suits were visible at the scene. All three Legacy Independent Funeral Directors locations in Hull and Beverley remain cordoned off as formal identification procedures continue on the deceased.
Assistant Chief Constable Thom McLoughlin said that since Friday when the force received news of concerns about the “storage and management processes relating to care of the deceased,” the police have received over 350 calls from the public via their dedicated phone line. A direct line has been set up for anyone who may be affected, and two helpline numbers have been set up. Staff are working tirelessly to deal with the unprecedented inquiries generated as a result of the incident, and affected families continue to be supported by family liaison officers.
The UK Funeral Industry Regulatory Authority (FIRA) and regulator the Environment Agency are holding discussions with the police, and the director of FIRA spoke of the priority the industry places on providing “dignified and respectful services to both the deceased and their families.” The authorities are working together to ensure that any failings that may have been highlighted by recent events are addressed by the industry and, where necessary, subject to appropriate regulatory action.
If you’re affected by the issues raised in this news story and would like to share your experiences, you can email haveyoursay@bbc.co.uk. The police have set up a dedicated phone line for anyone affected, and two helpline numbers are available, one for UK residents and one for people who are abroad
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