I’m 19 and do a job that nobody wants – people say it’s strange but more young people should go for it

A TEENAGE undertaker admits he’s surprised more youngsters aren’t dying to get a job in the funeral industry.

Bruce Lamb, 19, has started an unconventional journey into the career after surprising folk by choosing to follow in his father’s footsteps.

Bruce loves his role and thinks more youngsters should get involved.

He thinks people have the wrong idea about the role.

The trailblazer, from Broxburn, works for Scotmid Funerals at Forrester Park Edinburgh and couldn’t think of a better job.

He said: “I have attended several family funerals, so death and passing has had a profound effect on me personally.

“When I was younger, I would also be transfixed when a large cortege appeared on the road as it creates a unique atmosphere as soon as they appear.

“I have found it fascinating to learn about grief and how the whole funeral experience, from first conversation to the service itself and aftercare, and how this process helps the bereaved.

“Since starting at Scotmid Funerals, I can see now that we take this even further through remembrance trees and services at Christmas.”

Bruce has been well received despite his young age and hopes to inspire others who might be considering the same career path.

He adds: “Most people are taken aback to start with and quickly fire a lot of questions at me about the job.

“But usually, I receive a positive reaction, with responses like, ‘good for you’ or ‘that’s a good career if you stick in.’

“I agree that it is unusual for someone my age, but Scotmid has broken the mould.

“I think the main reason is that the industry has not targeted younger people and schools do not promote the industry as a potential career.

“I don’t mind being the youngest because l can learn so much from experienced operatives.

“I don’t think there are any negatives of being so young in the industry.

“I have only received positive feedback from bereaved families and they have all said, in some manner, that it’s good to see a young person in the profession.

“It goes against ‘the norm’ of a traditional undertaker, which I think is great as it changes the definition of the role.

“I would - and have - recommended the job to a few of my friends, and would heartily continue to encourage any younger person to go for it.”

One of Bruce’s favourite things about the job is that no two days are the same.

He loves the variety of his role and can’t see himself ever getting bored doing what he loves.

Though some people seem to think that undertakers are full of doom and gloom, the teenager insists that’s the highest misconception he wants to challenge.

He explains: “I can be washing a limousine first thing, then picking up a family and attending the funeral as a driver/bearer, then on a call out to a recently bereaved family’s home.

“On the day, it is literally all hands on deck as you must be on time, smartly dressed and everyone has to be in sync to ensure that the ceremony is run to perfect timings. There is no room for error.

“Speaking with recently bereaved family members is also something that, although is very tough and sometimes emotionally draining, can give you a huge sense of pride when their loved one is given the send-off they and the family wished for.

“The best part of the job is receiving compliments or a thank you card from a bereaved persons’ relative or loved one. This is by far the most welcome reward in doing the job.

“i love it. I can honestly say I get up each day and like going to work, which is all any of us can hope for.”