Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
At Saunders & Chorley Funeral Directors, we understand that you may have many questions during this challenging time. We're here to provide clear answers and support, guiding you through each step of the process with compassion and respect. Below is a breakdown of some frequently asked questions for different types of funerals.
Burial Services
A traditional burial service includes the preparation of the body, a funeral procession, and the burial at a cemetery of your choice. The service usually takes place at a local church or crematorium before proceeding to the burial site. We offer a selection of coffins and floral tributes to personalise the service to your loved one’s wishes.
Yes, you are welcome to choose any cemetery within the local area or further afield. We will help you navigate cemetery options, including availability, costs, and any specific rules or requirements for the cemetery.
The costs for a burial service typically include the coffin, funeral director fees, cemetery fees, and disbursements. If you require assistance, we can provide a detailed breakdown of the total costs for you.
Cremation Services
A cremation service can be a simple, dignified process, often involving a small service at the crematorium before the cremation takes place. Families can choose to have a formal ceremony, where they can offer tributes, music, and readings, or opt for a simpler cremation without a formal gathering.
Yes, if you choose to have a formal cremation service, family and friends can attend to say their final farewells. Alternatively, with direct cremation, the process takes place without attendance, though you can still have a memorial service at a later time.
After the cremation, the ashes are returned to you in a simple casket within five to seven working days. You can choose to keep them at home, scatter them in a meaningful location, or arrange a memorial service.
Eco-Friendly Funerals
An eco-friendly funeral focuses on minimising environmental impact. This can include options like biodegradable coffins, sustainable transportation, and woodland burials. We can guide you through all the available eco-friendly options to create a meaningful and environmentally-conscious farewell for your loved one.
We offer biodegradable coffins, eco-friendly urns for ashes, and options for woodland burials. For transport, we can also arrange for a lower-emission vehicle to ensure your loved one's final journey is environmentally responsible.
Eco-friendly options can sometimes be more affordable than traditional burial services, as they typically involve fewer materials. However, we will provide a full cost breakdown and ensure that you can make the most suitable choice for your budget.
Direct Cremations
A direct cremation is a simple, unattended cremation that occurs without a formal ceremony at the crematorium. It’s an affordable and dignified option, allowing families the freedom to hold a memorial service or celebration of life at a later time, in a place that feels right to them.
Our Direct Cremation service includes:
- Collection of your loved one from their place of death (home, hospital, care home, etc.)
- Transportation to the crematorium
- A simple, dignified coffin
- Cremation at a local crematorium without service attendance
- Return of the ashes in a tasteful casket within 7 days
Yes, we offer a Gentle Farewell option for direct cremations, where you can have a private farewell at our Abbey Mount Chapel for up to 25 family members. Music and tributes can be included, and we can also offer the option to dress your loved one in their own clothes for the cremation.
- Direct Cremation: £1,350
- Gentle Farewell: £1,550 (includes a private farewell in the chapel)
General Questions
- Notify a Medical Professional: If the death occurred at home, contact the GP or NHS 111 (if out of hours). If the death occurred in a hospital or care home, the staff will take care of the necessary steps.
- Contact Saunders & Chorley Funeral Directors: We will arrange the collection of your loved one, take care of the paperwork, and guide you through the next steps.
You must register the death within 5 days at the local Register Office. Please bring the medical certificate of cause of death, full name and date of birth of the deceased, and any other relevant documents to the registrar’s office. For locations in Barrow-in-Furness and surrounding areas, please contact your local registry office for specific details.
We offer flexible payment options including funeral finance. You can choose to pay by bank transfer, credit card, or cheque. We will also discuss options for pre-paid funeral plans if you are considering them.
Yes, we offer private chapel visits for a small fee of £80, allowing you to say goodbye in a respectful and private space before the service.
Contact Saunders & Chorley Funeral Directors.
If you need a listening ear or practical support, please don’t hesitate to contact Saunders & Chorley Funeral Directors. We’re here for you, offering compassionate care every step of the way.