About Hazel

A lifetime of caring, listening and helping people tell their stories

My understanding of funerals began long before I became a celebrant. My father was a church minister who conducted many funeral services, and I grew up with an insight into the care and thought that go into helping families say goodbye. When I was old enough, I helped him with script writing, learning how carefully chosen words can bring comfort and capture something of a person’s life.

That early experience has stayed with me throughout my working life. During more than 40 years in nursing and care home management, specialising in dementia and palliative care, I supported people and their families through illness, loss and bereavement. I learned the importance of listening patiently, respecting individual wishes and offering calm, sensitive support when emotions are difficult to put into words.

As a professionally trained funeral celebrant, I have supported families and delivered ceremonies in difficult and sensitive circumstances. These experiences have strengthened my ability to respond thoughtfully, adapt to each family’s needs and guide a ceremony with care and composure. You do not need to have all the words or know where to begin, we can work through it together.

I take time to understand the person being remembered: their relationships, their character, the things they loved and the memories that matter to you. My aim is to create a farewell that feels true to them, with space for sadness, gratitude, affection and, when it feels right, humour.

I hold a Level 3 Diploma in Funeral Celebrancy. In 2014, I received the Good Nurse Award at the Great British Care Awards (North West). My work in end-of-life care also included achieving Gold Standards Framework accreditation and the Six Steps to Success in End of Life Care Award through St Ann’s Hospice in Manchester.

Whether you would like a non-religious ceremony or one that includes hymns, prayers or spiritual elements, your wishes will guide my approach.

It is a privilege to help you tell your loved one’s story and create a personal farewell, delivered with warmth, dignity and compassion.