Information

You appear to be using an unsupported browser, and it may not be able to display this site properly. You may wish to upgrade your browser.

What to do first

You should start planning the funeral as soon as possible. A funeral can only take place after the death has been registered.

If the death was sudden or unexplained, you might not be able to make the final funeral arrangements until the Procurator Fiscal has finished their investigation.

Finding out the person's wishes

Before contacting a funeral director or making any arrangements, check if there's a will which might include the person's wishes (such as whether they wanted to be buried or cremated).

The will and other relevant papers (like a pre-paid funeral plan to help with the costs of the funeral) could be:

  • at home
  • in a bank
  • with lawyers
  • with other relatives

If you do not know the person's wishes, you could ask a friend or other relatives for help and advice. Your funeral director or the person who will lead the service can help with suggestions if there's no one else you can discuss this with.

Back to top