Funeral Industry News

New Funeral Sector Inspectors Recruited

July 1, 2026 by funeral-industry-news No Comments | Category Burial authorities, Cremation authorities, Funeral directors, Funeral services

New Funeral Sector Inspectors recruited

The Scottish Ministers are pleased to announce the appointment of Robbie Beattie, Terry Dickson and Martin Jeffrey. They will join our current inspector, Robert Swanson, reinforcing Scotland’s continued commitment to leading the way in funeral sector regulation. By strengthening oversight and maintaining clear standards, the Scottish Government aims to build and sustain public confidence, while safeguarding the dignity of every individual in the care of the funeral sector. All three bring a strong track record of professionalism, sector knowledge and hands-on experience within the funeral industry, supporting their ability to deliver high-quality, consistent inspections.

The newly expanded team of inspectors will deliver a structured and ongoing programme of oversight across funeral directors, burial authorities, cremation authorities and hydrolysis authorities. Their role is to ensure compliance with relevant legislation and any code of practice, while supporting high standards across the sector. The sector should be aware that a rolling programme of inspections will begin shortly. Inspectors are responsible for determining their own engagement programme.

By assessing how organisations meet statutory requirements, the inspectors will help drive professionalism, transparency and accountability — ultimately ensuring the bereaved receive the dignity and care they deserve at one of life’s most difficult times. The introduction of a strengthened inspection programme ensures that this diverse sector is held to consistent, high standards—regardless of size or location.

Legislative Framework Underpinning Change

The Burial and Cremation (Inspection) (Scotland) Regulations 2025 empower inspectors to exercise powers to inspect cremation authorities, hydrolysis authorities and burial authorities to ensure that relevant legislative requirements are being complied with. In addition, they can also inspect funeral directors for compliance with relative legislation as well as the Funeral Director Code of Practice. They may also take enforcement action where there is a failure to comply. Anyone who obstructs an inspector in the lawful exercise of their powers commits an offence and may face a fine of up to £1,000

Role and Boundaries of Inspectors

Inspectors operate independently of Scottish Ministers and are responsible for assessing compliance with the Burial and Cremation (Scotland) Act 2016, related regulations and codes of practice. Inspectors carry out their functions in accordance with the powers given to them by the legislation. They cannot take on roles that belong to others, such as the courts, police, local authorities, health bodies or bereaved families. They do not resolve disputes or get involved in individual case decisions. If concerns arise, they can refer these to the appropriate authority.

Role of Civil Servants

The Burial and Cremation Team lead on policy development of legislation and on the regulations which impact the funeral sector. Queries about these areas should be directed to the Burial & Cremation Team mailbox (BurialAndCremation@gov.scot ).

Inspectors cannot advise on implementation of regulations or policy interpretation.

Maintaining Clear Boundaries

These distinctions ensure independence, consistency, and public confidence across the funeral sector.

More information about inspectors, their role and how to contact them can be found here Inspectors of burial, cremation, hydrolysis and funeral directors – gov.scot

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