Calling a funeral director is one of the hardest calls any family has to make.
For some, it’s in the wake of a painful, shocking and unexpected death. For others, it’s the next step of a process they’ve been anticipating for a while.
So, it’s not surprising that we’re often asked, “when should we call you?”
We know how tough it can be to acknowledge, let alone dial our number.
Our advice is simple. It’s never too early to contact a funeral director. But as every situation is unique, here are three possible scenarios to help explain how we can help at any time.
Clarifying a loved one’s wishes when all is well
In an ideal world, we have made and shared choices and decisions for our own funerals. Even better, we have that insight for someone we may be responsible for at a later time. The reality is quite different.
In the UK, death is still a taboo subject. It’s hard to broach and often ignored until it’s too late. This year’s SunLife Cost of Dying report points to 99 out of 100 people knowing nothing about a loved one’s wishes.
Speaking to a funeral director when all is well makes for an easier conversation all round.
We help individuals, couples, or families explore a range of funeral choices. We guide them through options and costs, and develop plans that reflect their wishes and preferences.
These plans can be as detailed or simple as required, stored away safely for a future date. This means that the person who’s died, and their loved ones, have a clear plan to follow.
The removal of doubt provides greater peace of mind when the time comes.
Triggered by a change in circumstances
End of life planning can be triggered by a sudden diagnosis, a change of circumstances such as moving to a care home, or even something as simple as a big birthday.
Speaking to a funeral director means we can not only guide families through the funeral event choices but also help with cost-related conversations.
Funding a funeral through a pre-paid funeral plan helps families prepare for care assessments. And for executors, preparing funds ahead of time makes sense.
The opportunity presented by a change in circumstances allows families to have these essential conversations ahead of a time when it may become more challenging.
Following an unexpected death
This is the most painful of times. We know how hard it is to pick up the phone as it makes the circumstances very real and it’s not a call people want to make.
Our advice again is simple. Call us as soon as you feel ready. This can be done as early as you are able. There is no requirement to wait for certification, registration or any other administration.
We can support you at any time and guide you through the process. Our support and guidance is tailored to your circumstances.
Bringing your loved one into our care will be an early priority. This can be arranged no matter where the place of death is once the death has been verified by a medical professional.
No matter what you need. Whenever you need it. However we can help. It’s never too early to lean on our experience.
Worth noting also, is that UK Power of Attorney rights cease when someone dies. The responsibility for decisions made after a death can only be made by authorised next of kin or formally appointed executors.
Being able to plan for future funerals – even those not anticipated in the short term – lifts the burden of decision making from our loved ones at an already difficult time.
So why don’t you speak to one of our local teams? They can meet you in person in your home to discuss choices, or make an appointment at your local branch.
We’re here to help.
