Headstones and Memorial Masons governing bodies.

There are two main governing bodies in the headstones and memorial industry, these being the National Association of Memorial Masons and the British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons.

National Association of Memorial Masons.

The National Association of Memorial Masons was founded in March 2007 with the purpose to safeguard the interests of the bereaved. Its aims are to achieve this through the promotion of high standards, wide choice and greater understanding in all matters relating to natural stone memorials. 

Members of NAMM are required to follow the code of ethics laid down, example of the ethics include: 

• A member shall do all in his power to uphold and maintain the dignity of the Craft .
• He shall never attempt to persuade a customer to cancel an order when once placed with a competitor. 

British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons

The British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons (BRAMM) Scheme was set up in 2004. Its aim is to establish a network of nationally accredited businesses and registered fixers. 

The main objectives are to:
• To establish a recognised uniform standard of workmanship and business practice throughout the UK.
• To ensure all Businesses, Fixers and Burial Authorities on the BRAMM Register follow the current health and safety guidelines to protect both the public and their employees.
• To ensure that BRAMM businesses give a guarantee of the stability of their memorials and headstones.
• To ensure the Scheme will be effectively policed ensuring that acceptable standards of fixing are maintained.
• To encourage on-going training and education within the memorial masonry industry. 

Therefore if you are purchasing headstones, memorials or gravestones there is a degree of reassurance if the mason is a member of NAMM or BRAMM.

Click here for further facts on buying headstones and memorials.