Victim Support Scotland is currently working in partnership with Police Scotland to provide a bespoke support package for victims of fraudulent practices by a funeral director with premises in Dumbarton and Glasgow. 

Police investigations have found that A. Milne Funeral Directors (also trading as Dumbarton Funeral Home Ltd) fraudulently obtained funds for pre-paid funeral plans.

Further investigations uncovered other deeply concerning incidents, including families receiving incorrect ashes, empty urns, or no ashes at all.

To date, over 70 victims have been identified, with many families suffering significant financial loss and emotional distress, and some now discovering they do not have their loved ones’ remains.

Police enquiries are ongoing, and it is expected that more victims will be identified in due course. 

If you believe you have been affected by any of these crimes, VSS can support you.

Police will contact identified victims directly, providing a victim care card and dedicated contact details for support.

Our trained volunteers stand ready to provide compassionate support to anyone who have been impacted by this.

You can contact VSS directly through our helpline, web chat and online referral form and, if you are not already in touch with the police, we can help you to report the crime, if you choose to.

Helpline: 0800 160 1985

Webchat: victimsupport.scot

Referral form: Request Support | Victim Support Scotland

You can read more information and practical advice about funeral home fraud here.

Kate Wallace, Chief Executive of Victim Support Scotland said:

“Finding out that your loved one may not have been cared for in the way they would have wanted following their death is extremely upsetting and shocking. This, combined with the added possibility of fraud in relation to funeral plans, further adds to an already distressing and traumatic time. We have been closely monitoring developments and related investigations in England and Wales for some time, and remain committed to ensuring that victims of this crime are able to access the support services available to them."

“Victim Support Scotland is working closely with Police Scotland to explore a package of support for people impacted by this crime. Our helpline is available on 0800 160 1985 and webchat on victimsupport.scot for anyone who needs support.”