No Automatic 50% Deposit Demand
Many local funeral directors require at least 50% of the funeral costs upfront, often within a day or two. We prefer to understand your circumstances before discussing what's possible.
Help with Funeral Costs
Worried About Funeral Costs? Talk to Us.
At Memories, we start with a conversation, not a demand for payment.
We understand that not everyone has thousands of pounds immediately available when somebody dies. We won't judge, pressure or make you feel uncomfortable about your circumstances.
We'll listen, discuss your budget and explain what is realistically possible, including funeral choices and suitable payment options.
No judgement. No pressure. No hidden fees.
A Different Approach
We're Not Like Every Other Funeral Director
We know funeral directors need to be paid. We're a business too. But we believe there is a better way to talk to families about money.
No Hidden Fees
We don't charge extra because your loved one dies at night or needs collecting outside office hours. Our fees are clearly explained, with no unexpected charges added afterwards.
No Judgement or Pressure
We won't subject you to unnecessary or intrusive questions about your finances. We'll simply have an honest conversation about your budget, your choices and how we may be able to help.
Clear, Honest Prices
A Funeral Within Your Budget
We'll help you understand the options without unnecessary expense or pressure to choose more than you need.
Different Funeral Options
From direct cremation and our Essential Funeral to traditional and personalised services, we'll explain what is available.
Choices That Matter
Coffins, vehicles, flowers and other services can affect the cost. We'll help you decide what matters most to your family.
A Clear Written Estimate
You'll know what you're paying for, including our charges, optional services and third-party fees. No hidden extras.
Government Assistance
Financial Help May Be Available
There are two main DWP payments that families ask us about. They have different rules, and not everyone will qualify.
Help Towards a Funeral
Funeral Expenses Payment
If you're responsible for arranging a funeral and receive certain benefits, you may qualify for a payment towards the cost.
This can include certain burial or cremation fees and up to £1,000 towards other funeral expenses, including funeral director's fees and the coffin.
The payment will not usually cover the whole funeral.
You can claim before the funeral using an invoice or signed contract. An estimate alone isn't sufficient. Claims must be made within six months of the funeral.
Support After a Bereavement
Bereavement Support Payment
Financial support may be available following the death of a spouse, civil partner or qualifying cohabiting partner.
This payment is not means-tested. Depending on eligibility, it can include an initial payment and up to 18 monthly payments.
This is separate from a Funeral Expenses Payment and does not have to be spent on the funeral.
Apply as soon as possible, ideally within three months of your partner's death, to receive the full entitlement.
How Memories Can Help
Relying on DWP Assistance? We'll Work With You.
If you're relying on a Funeral Expenses Payment, please tell us at the outset.
We'll help you understand the claim, provide the necessary documentation and work with you to establish what the DWP may contribute.
Our aim is to see what assistance is available before the funeral takes place, so we can discuss the arrangements and any remaining costs together.
We want to help you arrange a funeral that is realistic, affordable and properly funded.
How It Works
- Talk to us first. Tell us about your circumstances and that you're considering a DWP claim.
- We'll explore the options. We'll explain suitable funeral arrangements and their costs.
- We'll help with the claim. We'll explain the process and provide the relevant documents once arrangements have been agreed for the purpose of applying.
- We'll review the funding. We'll consider what DWP confirms or offers and discuss any amount not covered.
- We'll agree the payment arrangements. Funeral arrangements will only be confirmed once we've agreed how the costs will be covered.
Important: DWP assistance isn't guaranteed and may not cover the full cost. We don't automatically carry out a funeral and wait to be paid afterwards. We'll discuss what is possible, agree the necessary payment arrangements and confirm everything before the funeral goes ahead.
Fair and Transparent Pricing
Already Had a Quote From Another Funeral Director?
Bring it to us. We're happy to compare the arrangements on a like-for-like basis and see whether we can offer the same services at a lower cost.
We'll explain any differences clearly, including what's included and any additional charges.
No pressure. No obligation. Just an honest look at what we can offer and whether we can save you money.
Here to Listen
Whatever Your Circumstances, Just Talk to Us.
We can't promise that every arrangement or payment request will be possible. But we can promise to listen, be honest and do everything reasonably within our power to help.
No judgement. No pressure. No hidden fees.