Arranging a Funeral – Initial Decisions Form

We have created a simple form at the bottom of this page, which in completing will help you understand some of the decisions you will have to make when planning a funeral. 

The form is not exhaustive, however, and the details as well as many other areas will be discussed between you and your Funeral Director or Arranger during the period leading up to the funeral.

A copy of your answers will be emailed to you and to us. You may like to print out your answers to have them handy, in case you change your mind or think of anything else you would like to add. 

It is a good idea to write things down as you think of them, as this will help you in your discussions, especially at this difficult time where you may not remember everything that is important to you and the person who has died.

Some of the key elements to think about beforehand will obviously be around whether the person who has died expressed any preferences or pre-arranged any elements of the funeral beforehand. For example:

• Would they want a religious, semi-religious or non-religious ceremony?
• What style of funeral would they have liked, elaborate or simple, traditional or bespoke?
• Do you want to express their unique personality in elements of the ceremony?
• How much family and friends involvement would you like in the planning of the arrangements and participation in the ceremony?
• Are there any ethical considerations – a ‘green’ funeral?