A family-run firm at the centre of a police investigation concerning missing ashes has been expelled from the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD).
The decision comes after a disciplinary investigation by the NAFD, resulting in the permanent exclusion of the firm, effective immediately. Detectives initiated a probe into the now-closed funeral firm earlier this month following allegations of missing ashes, incorrect remains being given to families, and financial misconduct. The business operated branches in Springburn, Glasgow, and Dumbarton, West Dunbartonshire.
Police Scotland conducted a search of the Springburn premises on Balornock Road, stating that any ashes found would "be treated with the utmost respect." The NAFD Disciplinary Committee met this week and concluded that expulsion was necessary.
Jackie Barnes scattered her mother's ashes only to be told later the ashes belonged to someone else (Tony Nicoletti/Daily Record)Jackie Barnes, 57, became the second known case of mixed up ashes at A Milne Undertaker’s after she received a letter informing her that her mum's ashes were at their company's Glasgow office following a police raid. For three years, Jackie, from Dumbarton, had cared for a complete stranger's ashes as she believed them to be her late mum Margaret Rennie who died aged 74 in November 2021 of COPD.
The investigation revealed a pattern of behaviour that did not align with the standards set by the Independent Funeral Standards Organisation (IFSO) Funeral Director Code. Despite being given the opportunity to attend the hearing, representatives from A Milne chose not to participate.
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An NAFD spokesperson said: “Following a disciplinary investigation, A Milne Funeral Directors in Dumbarton and Glasgow has been expelled from the National Association of Funeral Directors. The decision, made by the NAFD Disciplinary Committee following a hearing, stipulated that A Milne Funeral Directors will be permanently excluded from the Association, with immediate effect.
All directors with A Milne Funeral Directors will also be excluded from NAFD membership (Tony Nicoletti/Daily Record)“Representatives from A Milne chose not to attend the hearing. The series of allegations received related to a pattern of behaviour not compatible with the Independent Funeral Standards Organisation (IFSO) Funeral Director Code.”
Furthermore, the repercussions extend beyond the company itself. All directors associated with A Milne Funeral Directors will also be excluded from NAFD membership in relation to any other funeral business they are involved in, both now and in the future. In addition to the NAFD's actions, Argyll and Bute Council have taken steps to ensure the welfare of affected individuals.
Eight containers of ashes were discovered on the premises of A Milne Funeral Directors and subsequently handed over to the local authority by the police. Argyll and Bute Council have taken responsibility for these ashes, ensuring they are properly cared for at Cardross Crematorium.
Detective Inspector Gerry Shovlin, from Clydebank CID, expressed the gravity of the situation surrounding the missing ashes. He said: "This is a very sensitive and emotive case and we recognise the upset and distress that families have experienced. Our investigation has been going on for several weeks now and will continue for some time, due to the level of inquiry that will need to be followed up.
“It is a complex inquiry that involves a number of agencies, but families can be reassured that the ashes of their loved ones are a priority and will be treated with the utmost respect.”
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