Plan a funeral service: a step-by-step guide

The next of kin or closest relative usually takes responsibility for the funeral arrangements. Anyone can plan a funeral service though, so another close family member or friend can support you if you're finding it hard.

Planning can be shared amongst family members but funeral providers may need a main point of contact. Clearly define who is responsible for which aspects to avoid crossover.

If you can't decide who should plan the funeral service, check the will as your loved one's wishes may be specified.

Before a burial or cremation can take place, you'll need to officially register a death with the government.

You will then need to attend an appointment in person at a registry office before you can get a death certificate and certificate for burial or cremation.

The quickest way to receive the documents is to use the registry office in the area where the person died, but it is possible to make an appointment with your local registry office, rather than travelling to theirs.

There are three main types of funeral:

• Burial
• Cremation
• Unattended direct cremation

You may already know the type of funeral your loved one wanted. But if they didn’t leave any instructions and never discussed their wishes with you, learn about the key differences to help you choose a burial or cremation.

You can hold a funeral service:

• Where you live for easier planning
• Where your loved one lived
• Where the majority of your family lives

When all three of these are in the same area the location is obvious, but this isn’t always the case. If you’re not yet sure where you’d like the funeral to take place, choosing a nationwide provider offers you a greater flexibility of locations.

Your funeral provider will support you in your funeral arrangements so it’s important to go with a provider who has an approach you like. Consider:

• How much you want to spend
• What type of funeral you want
• The level of service provided

Funeral providers organise funerals daily so they know what needs to be done when and in what order. Make sure when you choose a funeral provider that you feel you can turn to them with questions.

Funeral providers will need a deposit or full payment to collect your loved one and begin the arrangements.

• There are several ways to cover funeral costs including financial planning products your loved one may have or using money from their estate.
• Money from these can take time to be available so be prepared that you may need to cover costs upfront.
• Funerals don’t have to be elaborate and your loved one would not want you to feel stressed about money. Choosing a simplified and affordable funeral option may be best.

Our friendly customer service specialists can talk you through our cremation services over the phone.

Once you're fully informed about what we offer you can choose the option that's right for you.

If you're anticipating a death or thinking ahead about your own funeral, a funeral plan could be right for you.

Request your FREE guide to find out how you can choose and pay for a funeral in advance.

If a traditional funeral doesn’t feel right for your loved one, a direct cremation may suit them better.

This unattended cremation option allows you to focus on a memorial that’s flexible, unique and deeply personal.

Arrange a simple, caring and affordable funeral with Distinct Cremations. Give us a call on 01543 212000 for immediate support with your funeral arrangements.

Music at a funeral can release your emotions and evoke memories of your loved one. Find out which funeral songs are the most popular to help with your music choices.

Writing your loved one's eulogy lets you relive happy memories and celebrate your loved one's personality, relationships and achievements throughout their life.