Dundee City Council has apologised after residents of a sheltered housing complex were given a bluntly-worded invitation to plan their own funerals.
Residents of Forthill Sheltered Housing Complex received brief invitations inviting them to consider their funeral arrangements at the start of October.
The brief note posted through residents’ doors stated: “Tenant’s and Warden’s (sic) Meeting on Wednesday October 11th, 11am. William Shields from Dundee Pensioners Forum will here to discuss funeral planning, a lawyer and undertaker will be present.
“A pie and refreshments will be provided, so please can you confirm if you are to attend.”
Charity Age Scotland said that while funeral plannning is an important issue, it should be handled sensitively.
Director Keith Robson said: “We would encourage people to think about funerals in advance, for their own and their family’s peace of mind.
“With funeral costs rising many older people on fixed and low incomes are left facing sudden and unexpected costs of several thousands of pounds while grieving and vulnerable.
“Most people don’t have access to savings, insurance cover, or the limited public funds which exist for funeral expenses, and some who do find that these don’t cover what they expect.
“Planning your funeral not only makes financial sense, but relieves the burden on your relatives and ensures your wishes are respected.
“However this is a difficult topic for most of us, so it’s important to approach it sensitively.”
A spokesman for Dundee City Council said: “”Funeral planning is an extremely important subject.
“These sessions are offered as a way of explaining the various options that are available and involve individuals who will be able to answer questions and offer advice.
“We realise that these issues are extremely sensitive and would like to apologise if any offence has been caused.”
Meanwhile, 119 people have signed a petition objecting to plans for an undertakers on Graham Street.
Dundee City Council’s development management committee will decide on the application – which officers have recommended for approval – next week.
The report to councillors says most objections related to concerns about parking on Graham Street and an over-provision of funeral directors in the area.
