Dorset funeral director goes international

Dorset funeral director Nick Douch visited Washington DC to attend the annual general meeting of the Selected Independent Funeral Homes.

Nick, who is managing director of Douch Family Funeral Directors, attended in his capacity as chair of the European group.

Industry innovations and good practice were discussed by members who travelled from around the world.

The increasing use of electric cremators is something that was a topic of conversation because they are better for the environment.

Nick said: “I always value the opportunity to gain new information and insight on future practices to better serve our families and communities.

“Selected’s meeting provided a valuable opportunity to gather with my fellow members from around the world.

“We participated in a variety of informative study sessions, discussed insights and shared new ideas that I’m excited to implement.

“Electric cremators is one innovation that we’d like to see more of in the UK.

“Meeting sessions focused on important other issues concerning the funeral service profession such as working with multiple generations, innovative branding, exploring what the future of funeral service may be, providing exceptional service, staffing and best practices.

“It was also a privilege to have my family with me to share the experience of an international conference together.

“We also got to experience the rich history of the capital city, including a poignant tour of Arlington National Cemetery.”

Founded in 1917 as National Selected Morticians, Selected Independent Funeral Homes is the world’s oldest and largest association of independently owned funeral homes.

Members of the association are expected to operate according to specific standards and best practices in order to provide the public with reliable, high-quality funeral services and funeral-related information.