Visiting a loved one in our care.
Many families feel nervous before visiting someone who has died. At Parkgrove, visits are arranged gently, privately and with care, so you know what to expect before you enter the room.
There is no right or wrong decision about visiting.
Some families find great comfort in spending time with the person who has died. Others feel unsure, anxious or decide that visiting is not right for them. All of these feelings are completely normal.
Our role is to guide you gently, explain what to expect, and make sure you are never rushed or pressured.
Our Chapel of Rest and Cottage Viewing Room
Visits at Parkgrove take place in our Chapel of Rest or Cottage Viewing Room. These spaces are prepared to feel calm, private and peaceful for families.
A peaceful room
The room is softly lit, often with candles, and prepared before your visit so the setting feels gentle and respectful.
Music if you wish
Gentle music, or a favourite piece of music, can often be played during your visit if this would bring comfort.
Space to sit
Sofas are available in the room, giving families time to sit quietly, talk, pray or simply be close for a while.
We will talk you through everything before you enter.
It is very common to feel nervous before visiting. We will always explain what to expect before you enter the room, and we will answer any questions as gently as we can.
Arrange an appointment
Visits are arranged by appointment so we can make sure the room is peaceful, private and ready for your family.
We prepare the room
The Chapel of Rest or Cottage Viewing Room will be prepared before you arrive, with soft lighting and a calm atmosphere.
We explain what to expect
Before entering, we will gently talk you through what you will see and answer any questions you have.
You spend time privately
Families are encouraged to take time. You may sit, speak, reflect, say a prayer or simply be there.
Bringing clothes, letters or personal items
Some families like to provide clothing or personal items for the person who has died. This can be a favourite outfit, something simple and comfortable, or small items that hold special meaning.
Clothing
If you would like your loved one dressed in certain clothes, please speak to us. We will accommodate this wherever possible.
Letters and photographs
Families may wish to place letters, photographs, cards, drawings or other small personal items with their loved one.
Items for cremation
For cremation funerals, we cannot accept alcohol or anything with a battery. If you are unsure about an item, please ask us.
Can children visit?
Children can visit if the family feels it is right for them. Every child is different, and every family knows their own child best.
We can talk you through it first
If you are unsure whether a child should visit, we can talk through what the room is like, what they may see, and how to prepare them gently.
There is no pressure
Some children find it helpful to say goodbye. Others may prefer to draw a picture, write a letter or remember the person in another way. There is no right or wrong choice.
Visits are arranged by appointment.
We try to keep visiting to office hours so that we can prepare the room properly and make sure families have privacy and support during their visit.
We understand that certain circumstances may require a weekend visit. Where this is needed, please speak to us and we can discuss what may be possible.
Call us if you would like to discuss a visit, ask what to expect, or talk through whether visiting feels right for your family.
Questions families often ask
It is completely normal to have questions before visiting. These answers may help reassure you before you speak to us.
Is there a charge to visit?
There is no extra charge for visiting a loved one in our care where a visit has been arranged as part of the funeral arrangements.
Is visiting always the right choice?
Not always. Some families find visiting comforting, while others prefer to remember the person as they were. We can talk this through gently and help you decide what feels right.
Can we spend time privately?
Yes. Private time is encouraged. You may sit quietly, speak, pray, reflect or spend time together as a family.
Can favourite music be played?
Often, yes. If there is a particular piece of music that would bring comfort, please let us know.
Can we bring clothes?
Yes. If you wish for your loved one to be dressed in certain clothes, we will accommodate this wherever possible.
What if I feel nervous?
That is very natural. We will explain what to expect before you enter and will never rush or pressure you.
We are here to reassure you.
If you are nervous about visiting someone in our care, please speak to us. We can explain what to expect, discuss what may be possible, and make sure everything feels as calm and private as possible.