Yes, you can put personal items in the coffin, other than any metal and glass items if the body is being cremated.
Burial or Cremation?
In the UK about 75% of funerals involve cremation. Cremation is generally cheaper. Cremated remains can be scattered in the Garden of Remembrance at the crematorium or in a significant location for the family, buried loose or in an urn or casket in a grave or taken away by the family.
Can I assist with the dressing of the deceased?
Yes, we welcome any family members that may want to assist.
Can I bring in clothing for the deceased to be dressed in?
Yes you can, alternatively we can dress the deceased in one of our gowns.
Can I make provisions for my funeral before the time comes?
Yes – Joseph C Roberts offer a range of pre-paid funeral plans, ensuring financial benefits, reassurance that the funeral will be undertaken as you would wish and reducing the stresses for your family of organising a funeral at a time of grief.
Can members of the family at the funeral bear the coffin?
We are happy to arrange this and would give a short briefing to ensure that all are prepared and we will be on hand to help at all times when the coffin is being carried.
Do I have to have a religious funeral service?
Not all funerals in the UK follow traditional religious practices and Joseph C Roberts work closely with a network of Civil Celebrants and are happy to advise on who may be best suited to your specific requirements. The service may include poetry, music and an appreciation of the deceased’s life.
Do you cater for all types of religious funerals?
We work closely with the Church of England the Catholic Church, the Methodist Church, the Baptist Church and a range of other denominations within the community. We also offer Humanist Funerals and work closely with other ethnic sectors, including Sikhs, Buddhists, Muslims and the Jewish Community.
How many copies of the death certificate will I need?
The average number of death certificates people order is 6, the Registrar will issue each death certificate at a cost of £11 each.
How soon can the funeral take place?
It is best to allow between 7 to 10 days, however in particular circumstances the funeral can take place within 24 hours of the death. We will, of course, ensure that the date and time of the funeral is convenient for the family.
Is there any other mode of transportation apart from the hearse to carry the coffin?
We offer a wide range of bespoke hearse options including a Route Master London Double-Decker Bus, horse drawn carriages, motorcycle hearses, and VW Camper Van or tractor trailers. We are happy to advise on the most appropriate option for your loved one.
Should a death be registered before the funeral arrangements can be made?
It is possible to start making the arrangements for a funeral before the death has been registered, but it is often advisable for this to be done before any details are confirmed. Our advice to all would be to contact one of our qualified funeral directors at the first opportunity to gain their specific advice for your situation.
What is a chapel of rest?
The chapel of rest is a viewing room which allows families to privately pay their respects to the deceased.
When do I have to register by?
Deaths in England and Wales or Northern Ireland should be registered within 5 days – if this is not going to be possible, you should inform the Registrar. In Scotland, deaths must be registered within 8 days.
Where do I collect the medical death certificate?
There is no longer a requirement to collect the medical certificate of cause of death, the medical examiner will email it to the Registrar
Where do I register the death?
The death will need to be registered in the area where the death occurred, even if the death occurred a distance from home. We are happy to advise you on this.