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"What should I do when someone dies?"

 

The first steps depend on where the death occurs.​

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If someone dies at home and the death was expected, you should contact their GP surgery or the out-of-hours medical service. A healthcare professional will provide guidance on the next steps.

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If the death was unexpected, the police and coroner may need to be involved.

 

Once the necessary medical procedures have been completed, a funeral director can bring your loved one into their care and begin supporting you with arrangements.

 

Have a look at our Blog "a Practical Guide of Loss: the first 48 Hours"  for more useful and detailed information

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"What happens when someone dies at home?"​​

 

If the death was expected, a doctor, district nurse or other healthcare professional will usually attend and provide guidance.

 

If the death was unexpected, emergency services should be contacted by calling 999.

Once the relevant authorities have been involved and permission has been given, we can

 

bring your loved one into our care and guide you through the next steps.

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You may find our Blog "What Happens when Someone dies at home" Useful

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"Do I have to use a funeral director?"

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No.

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Many families choose to use a funeral director because of the practical and legal responsibilities involved especially when considering the care of the Deceased leading up to the funeral but there is no legal requirement to do so.

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Some families choose to organise parts of the funeral themselves, while others prefer a funeral director to manage everything on their behalf.

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"Can I change funeral directors?"

 

Yes.

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Families are free to choose the funeral director they feel most comfortable with. If arrangements have already begun and you decide another funeral director would be a better fit, it is usually possible to transfer arrangements.

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If you are considering changing funeral directors, we are happy to explain the process and answer any questions.

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"How soon after a death does a funeral take place?"

 

Most funerals take place within two to four weeks of the death.

 

However, this can vary depending on factors such as:

• Coroner involvement

• Availability at the crematorium or cemetery

• Religious requirements

• Family availability

• Personal preferences

 

There is no need to rush. It is important that families have the time they need to make decisions.

 

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"How much does a funeral cost?"

 

Funeral costs vary depending on the type of service chosen.

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Some families prefer a simple, unattended funeral, while others choose a traditional service with additional personal touches.

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At Complete Funeral Care, we believe in transparent pricing and will always explain costs clearly before any decisions are made.

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You may find our Blog "Worried About Funeral Costs? What help is Available" useful

 

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"Is financial help available towards funeral costs?"

 

In some circumstances, help may be available through:

 

• Funeral Expenses Payment

• Bereavement Support Payment

• Charitable grants and assistance

• Payment plans

 

If you are worried about funeral costs, please speak to us. We can explain the options available and help you make informed decisions.

 

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"What is a direct cremation?"

 

A direct cremation is a simple cremation without a funeral service at the crematorium.

 

The cremation takes place respectfully and professionally, and ashes are returned to the family afterwards. 

 

Many families choose a direct cremation because they would prefer to hold a personal celebration of life at a different time or location. Click to Check out our ALL Inclusive Direct Cremation Package for £1,350.

 

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"Can I attend a direct cremation?"

 

Traditionally, direct cremations are unattended.

 

However, some providers offer attended options or alternative arrangements.

 

We are happy to discuss the different choices available.

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"Does the coffin get cremated as well?"

 

Yes.

 

The coffin and its contents are cremated together.

 

Coffins used for cremation are specifically designed to be suitable for the cremation process and must comply with crematorium regulations.

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"Are the ashes I receive really my loved one's ashes?"

 

Yes.

 

Strict procedures are followed throughout the cremation process to ensure correct identification and traceability at every stage.

 

Crematoriums operate rigorous checks and documentation procedures to maintain dignity, accuracy and respect.

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"How long does it take to receive ashes?"

 

This varies between crematoriums, but ashes are often available within a few days.

 

We will always keep families informed and arrange prompt return of ashes once they become available.

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"Can ashes be divided between family members?"

 

Yes.

 

Many families choose to divide ashes into separate urns, keepsakes or memorial jewellery.

 

There are a wide range of options available, and we can discuss these with you.

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"What is a direct burial?"

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A direct burial is similar to a direct cremation but involves burial instead of cremation.

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The deceased is taken directly to the cemetery for burial without a formal funeral service.

 

Some families choose this option because they wish to keep arrangements simple or hold a separate memorial event at a later date.

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We have a Direct Burial Package for £1,795 + 3rd Party Fees so Contact Us for More details.

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"Can I have a burial without a funeral service?"

 

Yes.

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A direct burial allows for burial without a formal ceremony, although families may choose to hold a memorial service separately.

 

We have a Direct Burial service available for £1,795 + 3rd Party Fees  Contact Us for details

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"Do I need to buy a grave?"

 

Not always.

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If there is an existing family grave with available space, it may be possible to use it.

Otherwise, a new grave may need to be purchased from the cemetery authority, otherwise if (where they are available) you opt for an Unpurchased or Public Grave there will be restrictions.

 

We can explain the options available in your chosen cemetery.

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"Can more than one person be buried in the same grave?"

 

Often, yes.

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Many graves are designed to accommodate multiple burials or a combination of burials and ashes.

The number will depend on the cemetery's regulations and the depth of the grave.

 

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"Can my loved one wear their own clothes?"

 

Yes.

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Many families find comfort in choosing clothing that reflects their loved one's personality and wishes.

 

If preferred, funeral attire or a gown can also be provided.

 

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"Can jewellery remain with my loved one?"

 

Yes.

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Jewellery can usually remain with your loved one if this is the family's wish.

 

However, families should carefully consider whether they may wish to keep sentimental items for future generations.

 

 

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"Can personal items be placed in the coffin?"

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Often, yes.

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Letters, photographs, drawings, small keepsakes and other meaningful items can frequently be placed in the coffin.

 

Some restrictions apply, particularly for cremation, and we can advise on suitable items.

 

 

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"Do I need to have a hearse?"

 

No.

 

While many traditional funerals include a hearse, alternative vehicles or simpler arrangements may be chosen depending on personal preference.

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"Can children attend a funeral?"

 

Yes.

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Many children benefit from being included in funeral arrangements when supported appropriately.

 

Every child is different, and families should consider their age, understanding and wishes.

We are always happy to discuss ways to help children feel included and supported.

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"Can I plan my own funeral?"

 

Absolutely.

 

Many people choose to record their wishes in advance to make things easier for their family.

 

This can include preferences about:

• Burial or cremation

• Music

• Readings

• Clothing

• Flowers

• Donations

• Personal touches

 

Our Expression of Wishes guide can help you record these decisions.

 

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"Can I arrange everything from home?"

 

Yes.

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Many families prefer arrangements to be made from the comfort of their own home.

We can discuss arrangements by telephone, video call or home visit, depending on your preferences.

 

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"Do you only arrange funerals in the New Forest?"

 

No.

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Complete Funeral Care supports families throughout:

• New Forest

• Southampton

• Totton

• New Milton

• Romsey

• Hythe

• Marchwood

• Lyndhurst

• Brockenhurst

• Ringwood

• Surrounding areas

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If you are unsure whether we cover your location, please get in touch.

 

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