Choosing the right funeral director for your loved one is vital, particularly at a time of grief. Careful consideration and talking this through with family members needs to be done before making your choice. You might use the same directors as for other family members or if you are new to the area, it’s best to undertake some research first.
1) Give yourself enough time
Don’t feel pressured into a funeral director straight away. Speak to them and get a sense of what they are like; research quotes, prices and reviews before settling on a shortlist.
2) Compare prices
Check what each quote includes (and what it doesn’t). Many funeral directors will offer attractive up front costs but then additions soon add up. Most funeral directors are legally bound to display their prices on the web now, so it’s crucial that you check these out before proceeding.
3) Find reviews or recommendations
Recommendations from friends and family members can be a great source of recommendation, but funeral directors can change owners or be bought out by larger corporations, which may have changed their service.
Online reviews are useful but also speak to others who may have used the funeral director previously.
4) Find a suitable location, and ask about home visits
The best idea is to find a local funeral home that’s within a short distance fo our house, as you may need to visit a few times to sort out the arrangements. Funeral directors normally work within a set area, and so it’s imperative that you consider the additional costs that might occur if they are further away.
5) Make sure their services are what you need
Can the funeral director provide what you need and the wishes of the deceased? Some funeral directors are happy for viewings, embalming and other services to happen onsite, but it is not always the case.
The funeral director of choice should be able to provide all the services that you need, even if via a third party.
6) Ask about payment options
Check whether the funeral director will need payment up-front or later on. They may also let you spread the payments out over time or they may have a payment plan option.
7) Look at qualifications
Check to see whether your funeral director is accredited by some of the key organisations that regulate the industry such as the Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF) and the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD). These associations have codes of conduct that their members abide by.
8) Choose someone who makes you feel comfortable
Perhaps the most important thing. If the director puts you at ease and makes you feel as though your wishes and that of the deceased will be respected, then you are probably making the right choice. If you feel pressured or ‘sold’ to then you might want to consider alternatives.
Are you looking for a funeral director in Stoke-on-Trent. Please contact Arlington Funeral Services for a family friendly service.
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