It can be a traumatic and confusing time after someone dies and difficult to know what you need to do first. Decisions can often be more easily made if you have talked about the funeral wishes of both the person who has died and those who will grieve their loss.
What kinds of funeral can be arranged?
Who is entitled to make funeral arrangements?
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Things to think about
- Do you know if the person wished to be buried or cremated?
- Did they have any other specific funeral wishes?
- Where will the funeral take place?
- Will there be a faith-led or secular funeral service?
- Who is invited to attend – and how will you let them know of the arrangements?
- What type of coffin or casket will you choose?
- What kind of funeral vehicle(s) would you like?
- Will you involve music or readings in the service?
- Would you like to invite someone to speak (give a eulogy)?
- Would you like to put anything special inside the coffin or casket with the person that has died? (if you are choosing a cremation, this will be limited – your funeral director can advise you)
- Should the service be livestreamed/broadcast for anyone that is not able to be there in person?
- What will happen after the service? Will there be a reception?
- Would you like to commemorate the person that has died with a headstone, or an event – such as a memorial service or the scattering of ashes?
Help with funeral costs
- England and Wales: Get help with funeral costs (Funeral Expenses Payment) – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
- Scotland: Funeral Support Payment – mygov.scot
- Northern Ireland: Funeral Expenses Payments | nidirect