Arranging a Funeral
John Bald Funeral Directors will be in attendance throughout the proceedings, to ensure the smooth running of events.
The funeral Ceremony is the culmination of the work that has taken place since the death occured.
Although only one of the many functions we provide, to many people, the sight of a funeral cortege is probably the one most associated with a funeral service. It is significant to note that the word ‘funeral’ is derived from the Latin ‘funeralis’, meaning a ‘torchlight procession’.
John Bald Funeral Directors will be in attendance throughout the proceedings, to ensure the smooth running of events. We will take on the role of Master of Ceremonies, carrying out the task of guiding, directing and overseeing the funeral.
If you, or any member of your family is unsure of what to do, just let us know. This is what we are here for, to help and guide you through one of the hardest days of your life.
Costs and other services
In all aspects of the funeral arrangements, our staff will point out the procedures and legal requirements.
Whilst arranging the funeral, we will advise on costs and charges to be incurred, culminating in a full written estimate which will be given to the person responsible for the arrangements before the day of the funeral.
Our account itself is divided into two separate parts – our charges, and the disbursements.
Our charges include the professional fees and overhead costs, which include the provision of a 24 hour a day call rota, our professional services in making the funeral arrangements and arranging documentation and necessary personal attendances, the conveyance of the deceased to our private rest rooms, and the use of the same until the day of the funeral.
Disbursements
Disbursements are essentially fees that we pay out on behalf of the family. These include Doctor’s fees, Crematorium/Cemetery fees, and Newspaper announcements.
Our written estimate will detail the approximate cost of any disbursements. However, as we have no direct control over these charges, there could be a slight variation on the estimate.
The account can be paid for by cash or cheque.
Organisations to be Informed
* Car Insurance – Documentation will have to be changed as you will not be legally insured to drive the car if the policy is in the deceased name.
* Social Services/District Nurses – if there is any equipment belonging to either of these, it must be returned.
* Hospital and/or Family Doctor – any outstanding appointments should be cancelled.
* Employer or professional association.
* Inland Revenue
* Social Security – Form 344/BD8 needs to be completed to cancel any direct payments into a bank account. The white certificate required will be provided by the Registrar of Deaths.
* Local Council – cancel any housing/council tax benefits and council tax itself.
* Utility companies (such as Gas, Electric etc) – cancel any accounts.
* Post Office – Arrange redirection of mail. A small charge may be made.
* Credit Card companies – cancel cards and arrange to clear any balances.
* Banks and Building Societies – Accounts need to be closed and any joint accounts need to be amended.
* Investments and Insurance Policies – Premium Bonds are not transferable. The Post Office will issue you with a form that needs to be sent to the Bonds and Stocks Office. For further advice, we suggest that you consult a Financial Advisor or Accountant.
* Store Cards – loyalty, charge and credit need to be cancelled.