1. Who to Contact First

• Register the Death: Before making funeral arrangements, the death must be registered at the local registry office within five days in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, or within eight days in Scotland. You’ll receive a death certificate, which you’ll need to proceed with funeral arrangements.
• Contact a Funeral Director: Most people choose to work with a funeral director who can guide you through the process. Funeral directors are experienced in handling all aspects of a funeral, from transporting the body to arranging the service and burial or cremation.
• Consider DIY Arrangements: If you prefer, it is possible to arrange a funeral yourself without a funeral director. This involves handling all aspects, including paperwork, transport, and burial or cremation arrangements. This option requires significant time and effort, so ensure you have the support and resources needed.

2. Initial Decisions

• Burial or Cremation: Decide whether the deceased will be buried or cremated. This decision may be guided by the deceased’s wishes, religious beliefs, or family preferences.
• Choose a Funeral Director: If using a funeral director, select one who is a member of a recognized trade association, such as the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) or the National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF). This ensures they adhere to professional standards.
• Set a Budget: Determine how much you can afford to spend on the funeral. Funeral costs can vary widely, so having a budget will help you make informed decisions.

3. Arranging the Funeral Service

• Location: Decide where the service will take place—options include a church, crematorium, or a non-religious venue.
• Funeral Type: Consider whether the service will be religious, secular, or a mix of both. This will influence the choice of officiant, such as a minister, celebrant, or family member.
• Eulogy and Readings: Plan the content of the service, including who will give the eulogy and any readings, prayers, or music that will be included.
• Funeral Notices: You may wish to place a notice in local newspapers or on social media to inform others of the funeral details. If publishing an address, ensure your home is secure or ask a neighbor to watch the property while you’re at the funeral.

4. Practical Arrangements

• Clothing and Viewing: The funeral director will ask you to select clothing for the deceased. If family members wish to view the body, the funeral director will prepare it for viewing in a Chapel of Rest.
• Flowers or Donations: Decide whether to have flowers or request donations to a charity instead. This is often specified in the will or decided by the family.
• Transport: Arrange for transportation for the deceased and the family on the day of the funeral. This may include a hearse and limousines.

5. Paying for the Funeral

• Estate Funds: Funeral costs are often covered by the deceased’s estate or paid by the executors. If there is a will, check for any instructions regarding funeral payments.
• Funeral Payment: If you’re on benefits or have a low income, you may be eligible for a Funeral Payment from the government to help with costs. This can cover expenses like burial or cremation fees, transport, and some funeral director fees.

6. The Day of the Funeral

• Service: On the day of the funeral, the funeral director will oversee the proceedings, ensuring that everything runs smoothly. They will coordinate the service, transportation, and any special requests.
• Reception: After the service, it is customary to invite attendees to a reception. This can be held at your home, a local venue, or a restaurant. You may provide a buffet or ask relatives and friends to contribute food.

7. After the Funeral

• Grave or Memorial: The funeral director can assist with purchasing a grave plot, memorial, or headstone. Alternatively, you can contact your local council or religious leaders for guidance.
• Cremation Memorial: If the deceased was cremated, you may wish to place an entry in a memorial book at the crematorium, which is often displayed annually on the anniversary of the death.
• Scattering Ashes: If you choose to scatter the ashes, you can do so in a location that holds significance. Always check the weather to ensure a calm day, and obtain any necessary permissions if scattering ashes on private or public land.
• Memorial Bench: If you wish to install a memorial bench, contact your local council to discuss costs, location options, and any terms and conditions.

By following these steps, you can ensure that the funeral is a respectful and meaningful tribute to your loved one. Remember that this is a personal process, and there is no right or wrong way to arrange a funeral—only what feels right for you and your family.