Arranging the funeral – Traditional Burials with headstones.

Prior to arranging the funeral the death will have to be registered, and a certificate will be issued authorising the funeral.

The first step is to check the deceased’s will or any other instructions for specific funeral requirements. If no clear instructions have been left then is it the executors or families decision as to the type of funeral.

In the UK there a very few rules and regulations which govern the disposal of a body. The only requirements being that the death is certified and registered and the body either buried or cremated.

Many people opt to use the services offered by a funeral director. The appointing of a funeral director should help the family coupe with what can be a stressful time. A funeral director can make all the arrangements for the funeral, burial or cremation, religious or secular service. The funeral director can also advise on all the procedures and documents needed to register the death.

Planing the funeral. 

If you have chosen to use a funeral director they can help with decisions which have to be made. Below is a list of such decisions;

• Where is the body going to rest before the funeral
• The time and place of the funeral. This can only finalised once the death is registered
• The type of service to be held (religious or other) and who will conduct it/contribute
• What budget has been set for the funeral
• Will flowers be allowed or would donations be more suitable and to which charity
• Where to donate flowers after the funeral
• Organising the invitations
• Will there be a notice in the newspapers

Headstones

If you are buying a headstone, most cemeteries will advise you to wait six months before fitting it. If is worth contacting a supplier as soon as possible to ensure a delays are avoided. Our preferred headstones suppliers will be able to advice you on the most suitable headstone. Remember you will need to consider the churchyard regulations.

Costings

The funeral can be divided into three main costs;

• Materials, such as coffin or casket, clothing and memorials or headstones
• Funeral director's fee, this will include making arrangements, hire of vehicles, liaison with third parties on documentation and management of the funeral
• Disbursements paid to other organisations on your behalf, such as church or crematorium fees and obituary notices.

Ensure you obtain written details of all costings before proceeding. This will avoid additional or unexpected fees or expenses.