.png)
THURSDAY
'Welcome Evening'
Overview
We’re delighted to invite you to the start of the NAFD Annual Conference weekend with our Welcome Evening on Thursday. This is your first opportunity to connect with fellow members, colleagues, and industry leaders in a relaxed and informal setting.
Kick off to conference
Arrive at your leisure, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by the NAFD team who will be on hand to greet you and help you settle in.
13:00 NAFD Golfing Society – Woollaton Park
16:00 Visit and Tour of The Barrows
Evening
An informal networking evening and BBQ offering the perfect opportunity to catch up with friends, make new connections and start the weekend in style.
19:00 Welcome evening
22:30 Evening comes to a close
Opening of Conference
We are honoured to open this year’s Conference with a welcome from the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Gloucestershire, Richard Bradley DL. His presence marks the official start of a weekend of insight, connection, and celebration. Before we begin, please join us for a Service of Invocation to set a respectful tone ahead of the Annual General Meeting.
08:30 Registration and exhibition
09:15 Opening of Conference
09:55 Refreshments and exhibition
Annual General Meeting
NAFD Members – Your Voice Matters
We encourage all members to attend the Annual General Meeting—an essential part of the conference where key updates and decisions shaping the Association’s future are shared. This is your chance to engage, contribute to the NAFD’s direction, and stay informed on vital professional issues. Don’t miss this cornerstone event.
10:15 Annual General Meeting
12:30 Lunch
13:15 AGM Continues
14:15 AGM Ends & Refreshments and Exhibition
-
Funerals Matter, Funeral Standards Matter
14:45 UK Funeral Director Code
-
Panel discussion – a year in the life of the Code
-
15:45 Refreshments and Exhibition
-
16:30 Exhibition Closes
Friday Night – Casino Night
An Evening of Fun, Laughter & Entertainment
Enjoy an exhilarating Casino Night alongside live entertainment and an evening designed to bring delegates together for a memorable social experience.
19:00 Casino Night
22:30 Casino Night Comes to a close
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
A Day of Education
Saturday opens with a compelling educational programme from the NAFD Board of Learning and Development.
Join us for expert-led talks, practical insights, and sessions offering valuable knowledge, sector updates, and essential CPD hours.
08:30 Refreshments and exhibition
09:30 Ecclesiastical Planning Services on Funeral Plan Trends
10:05 Daniel Palacios, CEO, Grupo Albia: Changing Families, Changing Expectations
10:50 Refreshments and exhibition
11:20 Blake Emergency Services
Afternoon of Education and Celebrating Success
The learning doesn’t stop at lunch. Our Saturday afternoon session continues with an inspiring keynote address designed to spark new ideas and energise your thinking.
Also we celebrate one of the most uplifting parts of the conference, honouring students who completed the Certificate in Funeral Arranging and Administration and the Diploma in Funeral Directing. This heartfelt ceremony, shared with proud guests, celebrates their dedication, determination, and the future of our profession
12:00 Lunch
12:45 Graduate Briefing
13:15 Awards Ceremony followed by, refreshments and exhibition
15:15 Geoff Ramm: The Power of an Incredible Customer Experience
16:15 Refreshments and exhibition
17:00 Exhibition Close
Presidents Banquet
The NAFD President’s Banquet is a prestigious black-tie event that brings together members, industry leaders, and guests for an evening of fine dining, networking, and celebration. It provides an opportunity to recognise the valuable work of the funeral profession while fostering connections and reflecting on the values of service, dignity, and care that unite the industry.
18:15 Drinks Reception
18:45 President’s Banquet
Sunday Morning - Installation of Officers
Installation of Officers Join us on Sunday morning for one of the most significant moments in the NAFD calendar – the Installation of Officers. This ceremonial occasion welcomes President and newly appointed First Vice and Second Vice Presidents.
It’s also a moment to reflect on the dedication and service of our outgoing Officers and your presence is warmly invited as we come together to show our support, celebrate this important tradition, and recognise those who will help guide the Association in the year ahead.
9:00 Refreshments
10:00 Installation of Officers