The funeral

Arranging the funeral

Unless there are religious or cultural reasons for holding a funeral quickly there is no need to hurry. You can take all the time you need to make sure the funeral is arranged in a way that will be special to you.

Check if any Will has been made by the deceased as soon as possible as it may include special requests about the funeral arrangements.

Costs of funerals do vary and you may wish to contact several funeral directors in order to compare prices before you make a decision. Also check whether the deceased has contributed to schemes to pay for the funeral with a specific undertaker or if there are insurance policies in place.

Undertakers are very experienced and will provide you with suggestions, practical support and guidance concerning the funeral arrangements if you require. A list of local undertakers is available from the Hospital Bereavement Service.

If you have trouble paying for the funeral you may be entitled to receive a payment from the Department for Work and Pensions Social Fund. To qualify you or your partner must be receiving an eligible benefit.

Contact the Hospital Bereavement Service or your local Job Centre Plus office to check eligibility and ask for leaflet DWP 1027 – ‘What to do after death in England and Wales’.