FAQ

We are here to help you with any questions that you may have so please do not hesitate to get in touch, however trivial the question may seem to you. Below we answer some of the most common questions people have asked about, such as what to do and what happens at a funeral (remember this is a general guide and customs and traditions vary).

  • When should I call? ↓
  • We appreciate that after someone passes away, making that first phone call is very difficult. We answer your calls personally and are here to assist you day or night. It is entirely up to you when you get in touch with a funeral director, but we recommend calling as soon as possible after someone dies so they can support and guide you through the steps you need to take.

  • Where should I start? ↓
  • Freedom Funerals is dedicated to meeting your needs, providing guidance and support. We would be honoured to assist you and your family at this difficult time, day or night. Your first steps will be based on the circumstances of your loss, however in the first few days after someone dies there are few things you must do click here to read our brief guide to The First Steps.

  • What should I do if someone dies at home in the night? ↓
  • If the death is expected, when you are ready telephone your funeral director and doctor. You do not have to telephone during the night, if you prefer to wait until the morning. However many people prefer to act and we are available to assist you at any time.

    If the death is not expected, immediately telephone 999 and request assistance.

    It is usual for people to be unsure of what to do in the immediate aftermath of a bereavement. We will take you through every step and provide advice on other things you may need to think about.

  • When does a Coroner get involved? ↓
  • There are occasions when it is necessary for the Coroner's office to act or investigate sudden or unexplained deaths. If the Coroner is involved certificates need to be issued before a funeral can take place.

    There is no need to wait for a certificate to be issued before making preliminary arrangements with your Funeral Director. We will liaise with the Coroner's office on your behalf to ensure there is time to allow the Coroner's enquiries to be completed and the funeral to proceed.

  • How much does it cost? ↓
  • We provide funerals to suit all budgets and requirements with no hidden, inflated or extra costs. Our funerals are tailored to the individual. We do not have package prices as we believe this encourages you to pay for things you may not necessarily have chosen, instead we work with you and your budget to achieve the funeral you wish for your loved one.

    For further information please click here to visit our Costs page.

  • Do you offer payment plans? ↓
  • Yes, we offer a range of payment plans including deferring payments until probate is complete and the deceased estate realised..

  • Can you defer payment? ↓
  • Yes, we offer a range of payment plans including deferring payments until probate is complete and the deceased estate realised. For further information please click here to read our section on The Costs.

  • Should I visit the person who has died in the chapel of rest? ↓
  • Like so much of funeral planning whether you visit your loved one in the chapel of rest is entirely your choice.

    Some people find visiting the person who has died helps them come to terms with the death, especially if it was unexpected. Whilst others prefer to remember their loved ones from an earlier time. However, it is entirely up to you if you wish to visit or not. It's important for you to do what you feel is right and we would be happy to discuss this with you to help you make the right decision for you.

  • Can children go to a funeral? ↓
  • There are no rules about whether children are permitted to attend a funeral. Like so much of funeral planning the choice is yours. Some people think it allows children to express their grief whilst others believe it may be unnecessarily traumatic. It's important for you to do what you feel is right and we would be happy to discuss this with you to help you make the decision.

  • What facilities are at the crematorium or church? ↓
  • Facilities vary depending on the crematorium or church. We would be delighted to talk through the various venues and the options.

    Facilities may include: a system to play recorded music, an organ, a hearing loop, hymn and service books, a wheelchair to borrow, waiting suite and toilets.

  • Do I need to be invited to a funeral or can anyone go? ↓
  • Unless a family specifically asks for a private service, you do not usually have to be personally invited. If you knew the deceased, you are welcome to attend the service.

    Some people opt for a smaller private service followed by an open memorial service where anyone can attend. If this is the case usually the private service is often invitation only.

  • Do you hold Funeral Wishes for my loved one? ↓
  • Our Funeral Wishes service has been designed to help people wishing to document their funeral requirements. We hope that the service offers reassurance and peace of mind please call us on 01206 862963 if you wish us to check whether we hold Funeral Wishes for your loved one.