Arranging A Funeral
The thought of arranging a funeral is not something any of us would want to do, this together with the distress and emotional upset leaves you completely disorientated and unsure of what to do next. It is exactly this situation that our funeral arrangers have been trained to understand and cope with.
Under normal circumstances the funeral arrangements are made when you attend one of our offices, where we are furnished with the appropriate surroundings in which you can been seen in private and comfort, an appointment is not necessary.
The funeral service
The funeral service can take place wherever you so desire, you may wish to have a local church service or the service may be held entirely at a crematorium of your choice. The funeral service may be conducted by the following people:
- A minister from any religious denomination.
- A civil celebrant.
- A humanist officiant.
- A member of the family or close friend.
Our funeral arranger will assist you in selecting the most appropriate officiant and liaise with them for you. We will book and pay for the church, clergy and the organist on your behalf.
Local or national death notices – we can insert an announcement in any local or national newspaper.
Jewellery and possessions – we always seek our clients guidance as to whether jewellery such as rings or necklaces should remain on or be returned, and it is usual for jewellery to be removed when cremation takes place.
Coffins – we offer a wide range of coffins which range from the traditional, such as the Datchworth above, to the eco-friendly willow coffins and a distinctive range of picture coffins. Your can view our complete range of coffins at one of our local branches.
The Chapel of Rest
The use of chapels of rest – all of our offices have chapels of rest for you to spend time with your loved ones. These chapels are private and are set aside for you and you alone as long as the deceased is in our care. They are simply decorated and we are happy for you to adorn the chapel as you deem appropriate.
If you do wish to view the person who has died in the chapel of rest, we would strongly recommend hygienic treatment, commonly known as embalming. We would be happy to discuss the options with you in more detail.
Funeral catering
Although this is not something that we carry out in house, we will be happy to supply you with details of caterers who have been looking after our families requirements for many years.
Funeral stationery
We will be happy to provide you with samples of Orders of Service that we have had printed in the past. You may use these designs or you may choose to design your own to include photographs, poems and so forth.
Charitable donations
Many families now suggest in the obituary notices that adoration in memory for a charity should be sent in lieu of flowers, when this occurs we will gladly receive such donations, provide you with a list of all those who have contributed, and ensure that the cheques safely reach the chosen charity.
Cremated remains
Some people want a more permanent memorial and would like to arrange to have the ashes of a loved-one interred in a grave in a cemetery. Please speak to us about the options, costs and process involved.
Annual memorial service
Every year we arrange an evening of prayer and thanksgiving in which we remember those who have died and we have officiated for within the previous twelve months.
Funeral directors charges
We are members of the National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF) and as such are bound by SAIF’s code of conduct. We will respect your choices, give you a full range of options and not put you under pressure to spend more than you can afford. We will also provide you with a detailed written estimate of costs split as follows:
Funeral directors fees (which may include depending on your choices):
- Professional fees
- Removal of the deceased
- Coffin or casket (including fittings and interior)
- Embalming/hygienic preparation
- Hearse(s)
- Limousine(s)
Disbursements (charges we pay on your behalf) may include:
- Cemetery/crematorium fees.
- Doctors’ fees.
- Minister of religion or officiate fees
- Church and associated fees
A fully itemised invoice, which normally mirrors the estimate, will be provided after carrying out the funeral services as specified.
Where to next?
Request A FREE Guide
Request a FREE copy of our guide to arranging a funeral booklet.
