Arranging a Funeral

Arranging a Funeral – A Step-by-Step Guide to the Process
At Farewells Funerals, we understand that arranging a funeral is a personal and emotional experience, and we are here to guide you through each stage with clarity, respect, and compassion. Below is an outline of the process for each type of funeral, helping you understand what happens at every step, so you can make informed decisions that align with your loved one’s wishes.
Cremation Services – The Process

Confirming the Death
Once the death has occurred, contact us at Farewells Funerals. We will take care of all the arrangements, including collecting your loved one from their place of passing, such as the family home, hospital, or care facility.

Medical Examiner’s Review
From September 2024, all deaths must be reviewed by a Medical Examiner. This independent review ensures transparency in the process. Once they have assessed the circumstances and medical details, they will either authorise the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death or refer the case to the Coroner if necessary.

Arranging the Cremation
After the death has been registered, we will make all necessary arrangements for the cremation. You can choose to have a private family ceremony at the crematorium or opt for a simple cremation without a service at the crematorium. We’ll coordinate the time, the location, and any special requests for music or tributes.

Return of Ashes
Once the cremation has been carried out, the ashes are returned to you in a simple urn. You will receive your loved one’s ashes within 5-10 working days.

Memorialisation
You can choose how you’d like to memorialise your loved one’s ashes—whether by scattering them in a meaningful location, interring them in a cemetery, or keeping them at home in an urn.
Direct Cremation – The Process
- Immediate Notification: Once your loved one has passed, contact Farewells Funerals to arrange a direct cremation. This option is a simple, dignified process where the deceased is cremated without a formal ceremony at the crematorium.
- Transfer of the Deceased:We will respectfully collect your loved one from their place of death and bring them into our care. There is no requirement for a ceremony at the crematorium—this is handled discreetly and respectfully.
- Cremation Process: The cremation takes place without a formal service, allowing you the flexibility to arrange a memorial service or celebration of life at a later time. This option allows families to manage the ceremony at a time and place that is convenient and meaningful for them.
- Return of Ashes: Within 5-10 working days, we will return the ashes to you in a simple urn. You can then choose what to do with them, whether to keep them in a special urn or scatter them at a meaningful location.
- Memorial Options: After the cremation, we can assist you with memorial options, including memorial services or personal tributes to your loved one. You can plan a ceremony when it feels right for you.r passions.

Burial Services – The Process

Confirming the Death
After the death has been confirmed, contact Farewells Funerals to begin the burial process. We will help arrange for the transfer of your loved one from the place of death to our care.

Medical Examiner’s Review
If the death occurred under any circumstances that require investigation, the Coroner may be involved. Once the Coroner has authorised the death, the burial process can proceed.

Registering the Death
The death must be registered within five days. You will need to visit the local registrar’s office with the necessary documentation. Our team can help guide you through this process, ensuring everything is in order before proceeding.

Choosing the Burial Site
You will need to decide on the burial site, which could be in a local cemetery, churchyard, or woodland burial ground. We can help you find a suitable location that reflects your loved one’s wishes and ensure all necessary permits and paperwork are in place.

Funeral Service and Burial
On the day of the burial, the funeral service can be held at a local church, crematorium, or other meaningful location. We will coordinate the timing of the service, transport, and any special requests you have for the ceremony.

Grave Marking and Memorial
After the burial, you can arrange for a gravestone or memorial to be placed at the site. Our team can assist you with creating a fitting tribute, whether it’s a traditional headstone, a plaque, or a more bespoke memorial.

The General Process – What to Expect
- Immediate Steps:Once a death is confirmed, we will guide you through the process, including notifying authorities, medical examiners, and the necessary contacts for the funeral. We will collect your loved one and begin arranging for the necessary documentation and cremation or burial services.
- Choosing the Type of Service: Based on your loved one’s wishes, you will decide whether to proceed with cremation, direct cremation, or burial. We are here to guide you through these options and help you choose the most fitting tribute.
- Funeral Service Planning: Whether you are planning a formal funeral service or something more personal, we will assist you with selecting the location, officiant, music, tributes, and any other elements that make the service meaningful.
- Logistics & Paperwork: We’ll manage all the paperwork, including registering the death, securing permissions for burial or cremation, and ensuring that all documentation is in order.
- Ongoing Support:After the funeral service, we are here for you with additional support. Whether you need advice on memorials, scattering ashes, or managing legal and financial matters, we’re just a phone call away.
Why Choose Farewells Funerals?
At Farewells Funerals, we are committed to providing a supportive, respectful, and caring service. We are here to guide you through every step of the process with clarity, compassion, and professionalism. Whether you choose a cremation, direct cremation, or burial, we will ensure that everything is taken care of in accordance with your loved one’s wishes.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact us. We’re here to provide you with the care and support you need, every step of the way.
