Choosing the right funeral director for you

There is no legal requirement or obligation to use a funeral director in the UK. However, most people want or need to use a funeral director to help them arrange and manage the funeral and to look after their loved one.

But, like any service provider, it’s important to do your research and make sure the funeral director you choose is the best match for your needs. Most importantly, are these the people that you want to entrust with the care of your loved one?

Here is a list of questions you should consider asking your potential funeral director:

• Do you have all of your prices available online?

• Do you offer a truly flexible and bespoke service or do you just provide set packages?

• How many funerals do you attend per day? Can you give me your full attention and support on the day of the funeral?

• Will the person who arranges the funeral with me also be the funeral director who attends on the day of the funeral? If not, can I meet them?

• As well as the Professional Fee for your services, do you make additional profit on coffins, flowers and other funeral goods?

• Do you have both male and female funeral directors?

• What will you wear at the funeral? Do you have a choice of different outfits you can wear?

• Can you give me a comprehensive quote before I commit to your services?

• Can I come with you when you collect my relative to transfer them to your premises?

• Is there any limit to the number of times or the time I can spend with my relative?

• When I spend time with my relative do they have to be in a coffin?

• What is your policy on embalming, and why do you think it’s necessary?

• Where will my relative be kept whilst you are looking after them? Can I see the facilities?

• What’s the name of the person who will be responsible for their care?

• Would you support me to help wash and dress my relative if I want to?

• Are you able to support me if I want to make most of the arrangements myself?

• Can I be present, should I wish to, when you place my relative in their coffin?

Whilst this is by no means a definitive list, asking these types of questions should give you a very good indication of the firm and the people you are dealing with.

If you would like more information about this topic, or any other funeral related advice, please feel free to contact us without obligation.