Useful advice for making funeral arrangements

Bereavement and grief are very complex and stressful issues. The loss of a loved on can totally devastate those of us who remain

in their absence and it helps to use the services of people who can take some of the strain off you, and carry out arrangements in the most professional way.

A funeral can be either by burial or by cremation.

Bear in mind that you can't finalise the date for the funeral until after the death has been registered. If the death has to be reported to the coroner, the date when the funeral can be held will be affected.

Registering a death

Remember to check the deceased person's will or other written instructions for special wishes about their funeral or what should happen to their body. (However, the executor doesn't have to follow the instructions about the funeral left in the will.)

If there are no clear wishes it's generally up to the executor/administrator or nearest relative to decide whether the body is to be cremated or buried.

Funeral options

The only legal requirement in the UK regarding funerals is that the death is certified and registered and the body properly taken care of, either by burial or cremation.

Removing a body from Northern Ireland

If the Coroner is informed that a body is to be taken out of Northern Ireland for burial or cremation (whether or not there has been an inquest) and the Coroner is satisfied that the cause of death is known, then a Coroner’s certificate will be issued, usually to an undertaker. This allows the body to be removed.

Deaths outside Northern Ireland

If a death occurs outside Northern Ireland, it will be necessary to obtain authorisation for the body to be removed and brought back to Northern Ireland from the country where the death occurred. The British or Irish Embassy or Consulate will be able to provide advice on this.

Using a funeral director

Many people choose to use a professional funeral director.

Funeral directors can help during what is generally a stressful time, and should see that the remains of the deceased are dealt with in a dignified way.

If you're using a funeral director they will help you with decisions such as:

* Where the body should rest before the funeral

* Time and place of the funeral (though this can only be finalised once the death is registered)

* Type of service (religious or other) and who will conduct it/contribute to it

* How much to spend on the funeral

* Whether to have flowers or instead donate money to a chosen charity

* Where to donate flowers after the funeral

* Invitations

* Notice in the newspapers

Choosing a funeral director

Friends, family, clergy or your doctor may be able to recommend local funeral directors.

Most local companies are also listed in the telephone directory. Or check with those who have advertised here.