From medicine to memorials: Meet the Lancashire woman who left pharmaceuticals for a career in funeralcare

After a successful career in the pharmaceuticals industry, Lisa was inspired to join the Funeralcare sector following her father’s passing in January 2013.

“Having experienced the process of arranging a funeral for the first time, it inspired me to want to help people in their time of need,’’ said Lisa.

She began applying for positions with local funeral directors. To her delight, Lisa successfully secured the role of a Funeral Arranger at The Warren Funeral Home.

“I ran The Warren Funeral Home for three and a half years before it closed, and we joined with Bretherton to become Co-op Funeralcare Bretherton McKenna.

“11 years later, I am proud of how much of a difference I was able to make to local people’s lives. This shows when families contact me personally or return to recommend me,” reflects Lisa.

Now aged 55, Lisa works as a Funeral Arranger at Co-op Funeralcare Bretherton McKenna on Dunkirk Lane in Leyland.

As a Funeral Arranger, Lisa meets with families to discuss arrangements, including booking crematoriums, ordering special coffins, stationery, music, and visual tributes and memorial items.

For Lisa, planning is one of the most important things a person can do to ensure peace of mind for their loved ones.

According to research by Co-op Funeralcare, nearly eight out of ten people in the UK don’t have a funeral plan in place, despite growing awareness of its benefits – Lisa is one of them.

Not only has Lisa taken out a funeral plan for herself, but she has also written her eulogy and selected the music I Think We’re Alone Now, by Tiffany. Lisa’s husband and 28-year-old son also have funeral plans in place, thanks to her encouragement.

“Taking out a funeral plan isn't just about reducing financial worry for the family; it can also provide peace of mind because the person has already made their choices,’’ Lisa explains.

Lisa is committed to breaking the stigma surrounding grief and funeral planning and is optimistic that attitudes are changing. “More people are talking about it now. We should talk about death – it helps families understand their loved ones’ wishes instead of wondering or assuming.’’

Her one piece of advice to anyone considering a career in funeral care is: “Go for it, as it is such a special profession.”

To find out more about Co-op Funeralcare Bretherton McKenna, visit: Bretherton McKenna Funeralcare, Leyland.