Complicated Funeral Arrangements
A Practical Guide to Explain What to Do When Funeral Arrangements Aren't Straightforward.
Funeral arrangements do not always follow a straightforward process. The circumstances surrounding a death, the wishes of the person who has died and the needs of their family can all affect what needs to be arranged.
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In some situations, additional advice or coordination may be needed. This could include arranging a funeral when relatives live abroad, making decisions when no clear funeral instructions have been left or managing differences of opinion within a family.
When Funeral Arrangements Require Additional Consideration
Although many funerals follow a familiar process, individual circumstances can make the arrangements more involved. There may be practical issues to resolve, uncertainty about the deceased’s wishes or family members who need to be consulted before decisions can be made.
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In some cases, arrangements may also be affected by where the person died, whether the death has been referred to the Coroner, religious or cultural requirements, or the availability of relatives and venues. These situations do not necessarily prevent a funeral from taking place, but they may require more planning, communication and coordination.
Understanding what needs to happen and getting advice early can help make the process clearer and ensure that important decisions are considered properly.
When No Funeral Instructions Have Been Left
Not everyone leaves clear instructions about the type of funeral they would like. This does not necessarily prevent a funeral from being arranged, but it may mean that family members need to make decisions without knowing exactly what the deceased would have chosen.
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There may be questions about whether to arrange a burial or cremation, where the service should take place, who should lead it and what personal details should be included. Family members may also have different ideas about what would be appropriate. Where there are no clear instructions, a funeral director can explain the available options and help you work through the decisions that need to be made. For more information, follow the link below to read our guide to what happens if there is no funeral plan.
When Family Members Disagree About the Arrangements
Funeral arrangements can sometimes lead to disagreements, particularly when relatives have different views about the wishes of the person who has died, the type of funeral or how much should be spent. It can help to identify what is known about the deceased’s wishes and establish who will take responsibility for making the arrangements. Keeping discussions focused on practical decisions may also make it easier to reach an agreement.
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If disagreements cannot be resolved, further advice may be needed. A funeral director can explain what can be arranged and help keep communication clear, but may not be able to resolve legal disputes or decide between family members. Our guide about when family members disagree about funeral arrangements, provides further information about this situation.
When Family Members Live Abroad
Arranging a funeral can be more difficult when close relatives live overseas or are unable to travel immediately. However, many parts of the process can be discussed and organised remotely. It may be possible to speak with the funeral director by telephone or video call, share photographs and music electronically, and agree who will act as the main family contact.
Clear communication can help avoid delays or uncertainty about decisions. If relatives are unable to attend the funeral, the family may also wish to discuss ways for them to take part, depending on the arrangements and facilities available. Read our guide to for more information.
When Funeral Arrangements Are Delayed
A funeral may sometimes need to be delayed because of medical certification, Coroner involvement, documentation, venue availability or difficulties arranging a suitable date. The reason for the delay will affect what happens next. For example, a death referred to the Coroner may require additional procedures before the person can be released into the care of a funeral director or the death can be registered.
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If arrangements have already been discussed, your funeral director can explain what the delay means, keep you informed and help rearrange the funeral when a date can be confirmed. You can read more about this in our guide to understanding the role of the coroner.
When Someone Dies Away From Home
Sometimes a person dies in a different part of the country from where their family lives, or away from the area where the funeral is intended to take place. This may require coordination between different hospitals, care providers, funeral directors or other organisations.
The arrangements will depend on where the death occurred and where the funeral is to be held. It is important to establish who is caring for the person who has died and which funeral director will coordinate the next steps.
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If someone has died overseas, additional arrangements may be required, particularly if the family wishes for the person to be brought back to the UK. This can involve documentation, transportation and contact with the relevant authorities. ​​If this applies to your circumstances, speak to a funeral director as soon as possible so the arrangements can be explained clearly.
When Religious, Cultural or Personal Requirements Need to Be Considered
Some funerals involve specific religious, cultural or personal requirements that need to be discussed at an early stage. These may affect the timing of the funeral, the service, the place of burial, the coffin, clothing, music or who should be involved.
It is helpful to explain any requirements as soon as possible, particularly if there are time-sensitive arrangements or specific venues, ministers or celebrants that need to be contacted.​ A funeral director can help coordinate with the relevant people and explain what can be arranged, while making sure the funeral reflects the wishes of the person who has died and their family.​
Coffins, Caskets and Urns
We offer a large range of traditional coffins, caskets and urns. You can choose from many different styles and we offer a range of price points. Should you want to offer a unique tribute to your loved one, ask us about our customisation options. If you are looking for something in particular, please let us know. We will make every effort to accommodate your needs.
Vehicles
We take pride in being able to offer a comprehensive selection of vehicles. A horse drawn hearse is also available upon request.
Getting Advice When Arrangements Are More Complicated
There is no need to have every decision made before contacting a funeral director. If the circumstances are unclear or there are several issues to consider, an initial conversation can help establish what needs to happen and what information is required.
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Clive Pugh Funeral Directors can provide straightforward advice about the arrangements, explain the available options and coordinate with the relevant organisations where necessary. If you need advice about arranging a funeral in Shrewsbury, Shropshire or the surrounding areas, contact us when you are ready.
With you every step of the way
Date and Time
Following registration, a date and time can then be arranged.
Cremation or Burial
In many cases a loved one will have left their own specific preference. Once the decision for a cremation or burial has been made, a venue for the service and order of events can be agreed upon.
Chapel of Rest
Our private chapel is available for you to spend time with your loved one, also allowing your relatives and friends the chance to say "goodbye".
The Funeral Service
We will liaise with the Clergy, Humanist Minister or Celebrant of your choice. Alternatively, if no specific Minister is requested we can suggest a Minister who will guide you through the order of service. The readings, hymns and eulogies will all be discussed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can funeral arrangements be changed after they have been agreed?
In many cases, arrangements can be amended before the funeral takes place, although this may depend on how close the funeral date is and whether other services or venues have already been confirmed. Speak to your funeral director as soon as possible if something needs to change.
Who can make decisions about a funeral?
The person arranging the funeral will usually take responsibility for making the necessary decisions, taking into account any wishes left by the deceased and the views of close family members. If there is uncertainty or disagreement about who should make decisions, further advice may be needed.
Can a funeral be arranged if important documents are missing?
Missing documents do not always prevent initial discussions from taking place. Your funeral director can explain which information is needed, what may be obtained later and whether another organisation, such as the registrar or Coroner’s office, needs to be contacted.
What happens if relatives cannot agree on the type of funeral?
It may help to return to any known wishes expressed by the deceased and discuss the practical options with the funeral director. If the disagreement cannot be resolved, particularly where there is a legal dispute or uncertainty about authority, independent legal advice may be appropriate.
Can someone arrange a funeral on behalf of a relative who lives abroad?
This may be possible, depending on the circumstances and who is taking responsibility for the arrangements. A funeral director can explain what information and authorisation may be required and how relatives abroad can be involved in decisions remotely.