Funeral FAQs
Honest answers to the questions families most often ask.
If your question is not here, please simply call us on 0121 555 0178. We are here, day or night, with no obligation.
First steps
Arrangements & what to do first
When someone dies, you do not have to know what to do next. The first call is to us — we take care of the rest.
What should I do in the first hours after a death?
If the death was expected and at home, call the family doctor or district nurse to confirm. If it happened in hospital or a hospice, the staff will guide you. As soon as you are ready, call us — day or night — and we will take care of bringing your loved one into our care and explaining the next steps gently.
Do I need to do anything before calling you?
No. There is no form to complete and no information you need to have ready. A simple phone call is enough. We will arrange a quiet time to meet, in person or by phone, when you feel able.
How long does it take to arrange a funeral?
Most funerals take place within 1–3 weeks. The exact timing depends on the type of service, the venue, and whether a coroner is involved. We will keep you informed at every stage and never rush you.
Can I see my loved one before the funeral?
Yes. Visiting in our private chapel of rest is welcomed and there is no charge. We will help you decide whether this is right for you, and there is never any pressure either way.
Pricing
Costs & transparency
We follow the CMA Funerals Order 2021 in full. Every fee is published, every choice is yours, and you will never be surprised by a bill.
Will you give me a clear price before I commit?
Always. We will give you an itemised written estimate before any arrangement is confirmed. Our Standardised Price List is published on our pricing page and available as a printed copy on request.
What does an attended funeral usually cost?
An attended funeral covers our professional services, care of the person who has died, a coffin, hearse, and bearers, plus third-party fees such as the crematorium or burial fee. Exact prices for this branch are listed on our pricing page in the format the CMA requires.
Is there a lower-cost option?
Yes. We offer an unattended (direct) funeral as a respectful, lower-cost option, with no service or mourners present at the crematorium. The full price is shown on our Standardised Price List.
Are there any hidden fees?
No. The CMA Funerals Order requires us to disclose every fee, every commission, and every ownership interest. We do not pay or receive referral fees from crematoria, hospices, care homes or hospitals.
How and when do I pay?
Third-party fees (such as crematorium or burial fees) are usually payable before the funeral. Our own fees can be settled after the service. We will explain the options clearly and never apply pressure.
On the day
What to expect at the service
Can the service reflect a particular faith — or none at all?
Yes. We arrange services for every faith and for families with no religious belief. We will help you find a celebrant, minister, or officiant whose tone matches what you have in mind.
Can I choose the music, readings, and order of service?
Absolutely. Every detail is yours to choose. We will guide you through the practicalities so you can focus on what matters most.
Can children attend?
They are welcome. We can suggest gentle ways to involve children, or quiet spaces if a break is needed during the service.
What happens after the funeral?
We stay in touch for as long as you need us — for ashes, memorials, paperwork, or simply a kind voice. There is no time limit on our care.
Looking after yourself
Bereavement & support
How do I begin to cope with grief?
Grief has no schedule and no single right shape. Be patient with yourself. Tell people what you need — even if that is simply company or quiet. There is no rush to feel better.
Can you recommend bereavement support?
Yes. We can put you in touch with local bereavement counsellors, support groups, and national charities such as Cruse Bereavement Support. Please call us and ask — we are glad to help.
What practical paperwork will I have to do?
You will need to register the death (usually within 5 days in England, 8 in Scotland) and may need to handle banks, pensions, and the estate. We will give you a clear written checklist and stay alongside you while you work through it.
I am planning ahead — can I record my own wishes?
Yes. A pre-arranged funeral plan lets you set out exactly what you want and ease the burden on your family. Our plans are FCA-regulated and held securely.
Still have a question?
No question is too small. Speak with someone from our team — there is never any pressure, and never any charge for a conversation.
CMA-required disclosure
View our Standardised Price List
We publish our prices in full, in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's Funerals Market Investigation Order.
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12 High Street, Aston, Birmingham, B6 4AA
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