Arranging a funeral

When a death certificate has been issued by the Registrar, you will be given a certificate to authorise the funeral.

Finding a funeral director

Your choice of funeral director is important as you should feel comfortable and confident with them. You may know them, they may have a good reputation in your area or they may be recommended by a friend, your GP or religious advisor. The Funeral Standards Council, National Association of Funeral Directors and Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors have codes of practice http://www.saif.org.uk . You can see lists of funeral directors in Yellow pages or on the internet. Make sure you get an estimate of costs – their own and any fees they will be paying on your behalf, such as cemetery fees. You can ask for this in advance and it's a good idea to contact a few firms to compare costs.

Organising a funeral

Your funeral director can make all arrangements for a funeral, including burial or cremation and a religious or secular service. He/she can also advise you on procedures and documents you need to register a death.

At Fareham Borough Council, we pride ourselves on managing our local cemeteries in a caring manner and in giving you a professional and sympathetic service. If you are considering a headstone for a grave, we suggest you wait for six months before placing it. However, you might like to contact your preferred choice of monument mason as soon as possible to avoid any delay after the six month period.