Shauna Batey, 23, from Consett, swapped nursery teaching for a role as a funeral arranger at Co-op Funeralcare The Grove in April 2023.
From classroom to funeralcare
Even while teaching, Shauna was drawn to the funeral sector. She said: "I was always intrigued when seeing funeral cars in procession out in public and happened to watch a lot of ‘interesting funeral facts’ videos on platforms such as TikTok, which helped me to understand the sector. It showed me how much care and dignity goes into supporting families at the hardest time of their life, and I thought, ‘I want to do that’."
At 19, she decided to leave education and apply for her first role in funeralcare. Shauna said: "It was the best thing I ever did. The job is so rewarding and it’s nice to feel like you’re making a difference in people’s lives."
Family support and a unique role
Her family were proud of her new career. "My family were very proud, particularly my mam and dad. They said it was the perfect job for me. Nobody else in my family has ever worked in the funeral sector so they like to tell everyone!"
As a funeral arranger, Shauna regularly supports families, from caring for the deceased to arranging personal touches for each service. She said: "I have heard some great stories in the time I’ve worked here. I love learning about the person in my care – their career, their family, little quirks, funny stories."
Future plans and advice
Shauna does not see herself leaving the industry. "I don’t see myself working in any other industry now. My job is so important to me and it’s always a pleasure to help give every person in my care the perfect send off. I hope that in the near future, I get the opportunity to step up and become a funeral director."
She is now working towards that goal and will soon start a funeral director apprenticeship alongside her current role.
She also encourages open conversations about death. "I think people should talk about death more. It’s a natural part of life and we all grieve differently. It shouldn’t be taboo, but I understand why people may find it difficult to begin those conversations. I encourage my family to talk about their wishes, as it’s so important to fulfil people’s wishes and celebrate them in a way you think is right."
Her advice to young people considering funeralcare: "Don’t doubt yourself. Most people tend to assume people in the industry all fit the same stereotype, which couldn’t be further from the truth. Being young is a strength, and you have the ability to make a huge difference."
