Weather disruption
Winter weather is causing disruption to services in some parts of the county. Find out what services may be affected in your area.
A funeral can usually only take place after you register the death. Most people use a funeral director but you can arrange a funeral yourself if you wish.
Non-religious funerals
A non-religious funeral (also known as a civil funeral) may be held anywhere except for religious buildings and churches. Cremation or burial is in a non-religious burial ground.
The British Humanist Association and Institute of Civil Funerals can help with non-religious funerals.
Funeral directors
Choose a funeral director who's a member of either:
- National Association of Funeral Directors
- The National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF)
These organisations have codes of practice and they must give you a price list when asked.
Arranging the funeral yourself
You can arrange a funeral without a funeral director. The Weymouth and Portland Bereavement Service can offer advice on this. There is information about arranging a funeral yourself on The Natural Death Centre website.
Help paying for a funeral
You could get a Funeral Expenses Payment if you get certain benefits and need help to pay for a funeral you're arranging.