The funeral

• whether they want to be buried or cremated
• where they would like to be buried or where they would like their ashes buried, kept or scattered
• whether they want a religious or non-religious service (or elements of both)
• the hymns, music or readings they would like
• what they want to be dressed in.  

Some of this information may be included in their Will.

Funeral costs

The costs associated with a 'simple' funeral include:

• a hearse

• a coffin

• removal of the body

• the funeral director's fees.

There may be additional costs, such as:

• cremation fee

• minister or funeral celebrant's fee

• burial plot

• flowers

• cars for mourners

• notices in the newspaper.

You may be able to find help with funeral costs from various sources, including preparations made by the person for whom you were caring:

• You may be eligible for a Funeral Payment from the Social Fund if you receive benefits or tax credits.
• Some insurance companies run schemes that let you pay for a funeral in advance.
• Some funeral directors let you pay in advance through monthly insurance premiums.
• You can buy pre-paid plans from Age UK (0800 022 3243) or from individual funeral directors.

Organising the funeral

Many people get help from a funeral director to organise the funeral but you can organise it yourself.

Funeral directors

Most funeral directors are members of the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) or the National Society of Independent and Allied Funeral Directors (SAIF). These two trade associations require members to conform to a Code of Practice.

Organising a funeral yourself

If you prefer to carry out the funeral yourself, you should prepare well in advance. For guidance, contact the Cemeteries and Crematorium Department of your Local Authority, or the Natural Death Centre.