The Institute was founded in 1982 by a group of experienced funeral directors, each with an interest in education and sharing their knowledge with people coming into the profession. They also wanted members of the public to be able to choose a funeral director wisely and receive the best possible service from them.

Over the past 35+ years the BIFD has grown into one of the leading providers of education within the funeral sector. Its Diploma in Funeral Service is the highest qualification available to those working in the industry, the mantra being 'Educating the Profession'. 

The BIFD places the educational and professional development needs of funeral directors at the heart of its work and promotes best practice through continual professional development.

The BIFD is run by professionals for professionals; the BIFD prides itself on responding to what individuals, companies and the funeral profession need to best serve the bereaved, now and in the future.

By employing the services of a BIFD member, you can be sure they will be following a Code of Ethics which all members have agreed to be bound by.

The BIFD Code of Ethics:

• A Fellow and a Member will treat with respect each dead human body
• A Fellow and a Member will pledge a completely confidential relationship to those they are called upon to serve
• A Fellow and a Member shall not solicit funeral orders nor employ any person to do so on their behalf, nor shall they offer or give any reward for any recommendations
• A Fellow and a Member shall not conduct themselves at any time in a manner likely to prejudice their professional status as a Funeral Director or the reputation of the profession