R2R- Bereavement Services Officer

Your new role

Are you a compassionate and organised professional looking to make a meaningful difference to people during some of the most challenging times in their lives?

Southend‑on‑Sea City Council is seeking a Bereavement Services Officer to join our dedicated Bereavement and Registration team. Our Bereavement Services team plays a vital role in supporting families and communities with dignity, care and professionalism. This rewarding role is at the heart of delivering high‑quality bereavement services, supporting families, funeral directors and other stakeholders with sensitivity, professionalism and care. This position is offered on a part‑time (25 hours per week) and temporary basis (10 months).

The working pattern is 5 hours per day across 5 days
. Due to the nature of the service, a flexible approach to working hours will be required to meet the needs of the business and ensure the continued delivery of an excellent service to our residents and stakeholders.

You will support the existing team booking burial and cremation services, managing bookings and enquiries, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements, and maintaining accurate records. You will play a vital role in providing excellent customer service while ensuring our bereavement services operate smoothly, efficiently and with dignity.

This is an opportunity to work within a supportive team that is committed to delivering respectful and compassionate services to our community.

To be successful in this role, you will be a compassionate and customer‑focused professional with excellent communication and organisational skills. You will have the ability to remain calm, sensitive and professional when supporting individuals and families through difficult and often emotional circumstances, delivering a high standard of service with empathy, care and respect.

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• Experience of providing excellent customer service in a public‑facing environment.
• Strong administrative and organisational skills with a high level of attention to detail.
• The ability to manage a varied workload and prioritise tasks effectively.
• Confident in using IT systems and maintaining accurate records.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• The ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, funeral directors, clergy, medical professionals, and members of the public.
• A professional, sensitive and compassionate approach when supporting bereaved families.

Previous experience within bereavement, cemetery, crematorium, registration or a related service environment would be highly beneficial.

The Council is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications, regardless of race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, age or religion or belief.