When a loved one passes away, the initial steps can be overwhelming. There are a number of tasks that need to be completed and it is often difficult to work out what should be done first. This can make an already tough time even more stressful; this blog aims to simplify the first steps to be taken following a bereavement.

Arranging a funeral is a task that needs to be completed upon a death, but it can make an already difficult time even more stressful for those dealing with a bereavement. We appreciate that there is a lot to think about, so we have created this blog post to outline what is involved in arranging a funeral and how you can afford the funeral expenses.

By now, we should all be aware of the importance of creating a Will. However, you may also want to leave other wishes that would not be legally binding in a Will, such as funeral wishes or guidance on where you would like your ashes to be scattered. You can include requests like these within your Will but there is no legal obligation for your loved ones to follow your wishes. There is also a chance that the Will may be retrieved after funeral plans have already begun. Therefore, if you have any funeral wishes or special places for your ashes to be scattered, it is recommended that you directly inform your loved ones during your lifetime.

Past research has shown that the cost of death is soaring, with funerals becoming more expensive than ever before.  

The BBC has reported that the cost of public health funerals, also known as paupers’ funerals, has risen by almost 30% to £1.7m in the past four years.  The number of these funerals taking place has also risen by 11% over the same period.

The cost of dying is continuing to increase at an alarming rate according to a recent report by BT and according to the Yorkshire Evening Post – the cost of dying in Leeds is actually one of the highest in the country.

Bath is one of the ten most expensive places in the UK to be cremated in, according to a report into soaring funeral costs.

The average cost of a funeral or cremation has soared 80% in the past ten years to around £3,456 and the current government relief is not sufficient to cover this bill.

A cemetery in south-east London has turned to modern technology to allow anyone unable to attend a funeral ceremony to pay their respects by watching and listening to the service via their smartphone, computer or tablet.