Our Guide to Making a UK Funeral More Affordable
Funerals can be expensive, and when provisions have not been made or planned ahead, the prospect of the required payments may feel overwhelming. The price is estimated to be £4,056 for a simple funeral service, up to an average of £8,864 to cover all costs associated with death and funeral arrangements – more information on these figures can be found here. These prices can be crippling to those already struggling financially, so with these exorbitant expenses, it’s no wonder folks in the UK and beyond are seeking ways to cut outlay.
While some may feel that a cheap and cost-effective funeral may disrespect the deceased, many people think otherwise, and a lavish funeral is seen as a waste. This is reportedly more common when people plan their own funeral rather than leaving the arrangements to family and friends.
If you are looking for ideas to cut costs, either for making your own arrangements ahead of time or for a loved one at what’s already a difficult time, we have created the list below to get you started.
Top Tips to Reduce Funeral Costs
Consider a Direct Cremation
A direct cremation covers all the basics legally required for a funeral and is the lowest cost option available. This option means the deceased is cremated as soon as possible after death in a simple coffin and without a funeral service, saving thousands. Since David Bowie decided on this option for himself, it’s become an increasingly popular funeral send-off.
Hold the Celebration of Life or Wake at Home
Instead of hiring a venue, save money by holding your memorial celebration or wake at home or in a garden. This intimate and personal approach can add additional comfort to proceedings too. Check out Forevory for ideas on what to do or bring in a memorial.
Axe the Catering Budget
Taking the DIY or BYO share plates option for a wake or celebration is a great way to save on catering costs and means it shares the workload of preparation.
Choose a Budget-Friendly Coffin
Coffins can be a costly aspect of a funeral, but there are options apart from traditional caskets that can keep costs down, including plywood and even cardboard. These are particularly good options for cremation.
Opt Not to Embalm
Embalming the body may be traditional but is non-essential, and not doing so can save money.
Cut the Floral Arrangements
Flowers are great, but they can also add unnecessary and excessive expenses to proceedings. And while people may send them, a popular option now is to request donations to a charity in their memory.
Contact County Funerals
Whether you want to choose a Direct Cremation, a Simple Funeral, or some other type of more extravagant funeral, County Funerals can help. With us, you will receive peace of mind that arrangements will be handled with respect and dignity for you and your loved one. Please view our website and our transparent funeral price list for more information on our services. Alternatively, reach out to speak to one of our experienced funeral directors, contactable here.
