After years working in the care sector, Becca Cook, 22, made a life-changing decision to become a funeral arranger – a move she describes as the "best decision I've ever made".  

Prior to her role at Co-op Funeralcare, Dorchester, Becca's journey into funeralcare began in an unexpected place: her college placement. While studying health and social care, she chose to work in a funeral directors' office instead of the hospital or care home placements that were selected by her peers. What was meant to be a 120-hour placement quickly doubled as Becca became captivated by the work. 

When the placement ended, Becca pursued nursing at a hospital, believing it was the natural next step. It wasn't long before she realised her heart was elsewhere. Becca said: "I loved my placement so much and didn't want to leave. Once I started working as a nurse, I quickly found that I missed being at the funeral directors." 

Becca brought with her a wealth of experience from the care sector, where she had worked since the age of 16. Over the years, she gained insight from roles supporting on hospital trauma wards and serving as a community therapy assistant. Although she enjoyed helping people during vulnerable times, she found that it was challenging to provide the one-to-one care she valued most. 

Becca said: "Working in the hospital, I found that you weren't always able to give people the attention they needed, and that was something I struggled with. Transitioning to funeralcare allowed me to provide the compassionate, personalised support I've always aspired to provide." 

At just 22, Becca is part of a new wave of young professionals entering funeralcare, challenging stereotypes about the age-profile of those working in the sector. Often seen as an unconventional career, funeralcare is now attracting those who prioritise meaningful, people-centred work.  

Becca's experience reflects this, "Funeralcare isn't what people think – it's not always sad. There are moments of connection, gratitude and putting smiles on faces. Helping someone through a difficult time in their life and seeing the difference I can make is incredibly rewarding." 

While the role can be emotionally challenging, Becca finds strength in her ability to offer comfort. Becca said: "When families are experiencing a difficult time, I know that my role is to guide them and make the process as smooth as possible." 

Becca also credits her supportive colleagues at Co-op Funeralcare for making her career move so rewarding. Becca said: "The team I work with is incredible. We not only support our clients but also each other." 

To find out more about Co-op Funeralcare Dorchester, visit Co-op Funeralcare, Dorchester - Co-op (coop.co.uk).