Funeral Advice

Following a death there are a number of arrangements that need to be made. There are statutory and non-statutory forms to be completed.

The responsibility for these arrangements normally falls to the Executor, or the nearest surviving relative, they may wish to approach a professional Funeral Director to undertake some of the various tasks on their behalf.

The Funeral Director will discuss the practical arrangements for the collection of the body with the family and will obtain the necessary Medical Certificates.

It will also be necessary to register the death, and information will be provided by the Funeral Director to assist in completing that duty.

A funeral be arranged without the services of a funeral director. The Executor, or nearest surviving relative, may arrange the cremation service themselves.

Cremation authorities that are members of the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM) Charter for the Bereaved will provide advice to persons arranging a cremation without the use of a funeral director. You can visit their website at http://www.iccm-uk.com/

Here are a few questions we are asked when people are making funeral arrangements.

Can items of jewellery be left on a body for cremation?
We prefer not, items of jewellery cannot be recovered after the coffin has been sealed.

Is cremation more expensive than burial?
Generally the cost of a grave is much higher than the fee charged for cremation, although the funeral charges can be similar for both services.

How long do I have to wait to put a headstone on the grave?
Most cemeteries will advise to wait for a period of approximately six months before placing a headstone. However, we suggest you contact your preferred choice of monumental mason as soon as possible to avoid any unnecessary delay after this waiting period.

Is it necessary for the cremation to be associated with a religious ceremony?
The service can take place at your own place of worship, with a short committal service in our cremation chapel, or you may have the whole service at one of our three chapels.

What are the options for disposal of cremated remains
Our Customer Services staff at either Blackley or Southern Cemetery can provide information about the various options available.

Can my relative's cremated remains be scattered at your cemetery? If so, what is the procedure?
Cremated remains can be strewn on the Gardens of Remembrance at Blackley, Southern, Gorton or Philips Park Cemeteries. You will need to make an appointment with one of our Customer Services Team to arrange a date and time for strewing. It is illegal to strew cremated remains without the final resting place of the deceased being recorded.

Where can I find out more information about cremation?
The ICCM's Charter for the Bereaved provides detailed information about all aspects of the cremation process, including the environmental and social aspects. You can obtain a full reference copy of the Charter from their website at http://www.iccm-uk.com/

Is there anywhere I can get help with funeral arrangements?
Manchester City Council's Adult, Family and Social Care Department can provide assistance in the burial or cremation of deceased persons when no other suitable arrangements can be made.

For further information Telephone 0161 234 3871 or 0161 234 3873, Textphone 0161 272 8770. or find more details online at Help with funeral arrangements