How do I arrange a funeral?
Most funerals are arranged through a funeral director.
Find one who belongs to one of the professional associations, such as the National Association of Funeral Directors and the National Society of Allied & Independent Funeral Directors.
The funeral director will need the certificate of burial or cremation, this will be available on collection of the deceased from the mortuary. The funeral director will arrange with the hospital to transfer your loved one to their mortuary.
If you would like to arrange a funeral without a funeral director, the Natural Death Centre offers advice.
Dealing with funeral costs
If you arrange a funeral with a funeral director you will be responsible for the costs. We recommend speaking to your funeral director about how much you have to spend and what services are possible.
The person who died might have paid for their funeral already. This is called a funeral plan. This information may be in the will, be known by close friends or relatives or with local funeral directors. You can also search for funeral plans on the Funeral Planning Authority’s website.
Help with costs
If you receive certain benefits
You may be entitled to help with funeral costs if you receive certain social security benefits. Help and advice can be obtained from:
If you are in financial need
Down to Earth gives free advice on funeral costs to people in financial need. They can help you to plan affordable funerals and advise on how to access financial support.
- Telephone: 020 8983 5055
- Email: downtoearth@qsa.org.uk
Cemetery and crematorium sites in Redbridge
Within Redbridge, there are five cemeteries, four closed churchyards (no space for further burials) and a crematorium.
Find more information about these sites on our dedicated page.
