Planning your funeral
Make your wishes known
Planning your own funeral may seem difficult, but can ensure your wishes are respected and help loved ones with decision-making. This page offers a clear, step-by-step guide to help you plan a meaningful farewell—whether it’s choosing arrangements, personalising the service, or addressing costs.
Why is it important to plan your funeral?
Having a plan in place can help to avoid disputes, financial worries, and unnecessary delays. By planning ahead you can:
- Ensure your wishes are honoured.
- Provide support for loved ones during a difficult time.
- Confirm how the funeral will be paid for and reduce financial stress.
What to include in your plans
- Who will organise your funeral.
- Burial or cremation preferences.
- Service details: religious, humanist, formal, informal, or no ceremony.
- Personal touches: music, readings, or prayers.
- Memorial preferences: grave markers, headstones, or charity donations.
- Share your wishes: talk to your loved ones about your wishes so that they can be prepared when the time comes.
The cost of your funeral
Planning ahead for funeral costs can help ease the emotional and financial responsibilities on your loved ones, who might otherwise need to manage these expenses. Funerals can be expensive, but they don’t have to be, and there are ways to keep costs down whilst still planning a meaningful celebration.
Steps to consider
- Set a budget: decide what’s important to you and how costs will be covered.
- Explore prepaid plans: consider funeral plans or setting funds aside.
- Compare services: find a funeral director that meets your needs.
- Simplify choices: direct cremation, family vehicles, or lower-cost flowers and coffins.
- Plan the wake: informal gatherings can be meaningful and cost-effective.
Further help and support
If you or someone you know is in need of help with end of life support, estate planning, support through bereavement, or to access any of our services, contact our personal welfare team today.
Further resources
Octopus Legacy
Our partner, Octopus Legacy offer informative guides around funeral costs, pre-paid funeral plans and wider estate planning.
Writing a will
Access to CISWO’s Free Will Writing Service and guidance around the process of making a will.
Lasting power of attorney
When you should consider an LPA and how to go about putting one in place.
Managing finances
A guide to help ensure your wishes are respected and reduce stress for your loved ones.
End of life planning booklet
All Things Considered is a booklet designed to help former mineworkers and their dependent families plan for end of life.