Here at Arthur W. Bryant Funeral Services we will always keep you informed about the costs of the funeral right from the very beginning. We will explain to you what the options are and how much they cost so that you are fully informed about the choices you make.

When you have made your choices we will provide you with a written estimate of the funeral costs. If, at this stage, you would like to change anything we will help you do this.

What makes up the costs of a funeral?

The costs of a funeral are made up of the following:

• Professional services which is a fixed fee that covers the full arrangement of a funeral. This includes personal supervision of all the arrangements preceding, during and following the service, liaison with third parties, such as clergy, crematorium, cemetery and florists, use of the funeral home facilities, such as our chapels and private rooms, preparing and attending to all essential documentation and provision of all necessary funeral staff to provide a dignified and personal service.
• Supplementary charges, which include bringing your loved one into our care, presentation of the person and provision of a hearse.
• The cost of the coffin or casket.
• Additional charges such as limousines, additional mileage and cremation casket.
• Payments made on your behalf, known as disbursements, which include fees for the doctor, minister and cremation.

You will receive your fully itemised invoice 10 – 14 days after the funeral. If you wish the invoice to be referred to a solicitor, please advise us as soon as possible when arranging the funeral. However, please note that you remain responsible for the account being paid in accordance with our terms and conditions.

Meeting the costs of a funeral

The costs of a funeral are defined as a debt against the estate so you may be able to arrange for the funeral to be paid by the estate rather than paying this amount yourself.

If you think you may have trouble meeting funeral costs, please discuss this with us at the time of arrangement.

If you are in receipt of certain benefits, you may be eligible to apply for a Funeral Payment to help with funeral costs. Payment can only be authorised by the Department of Work and Pensions. Please click here for further information on Funeral Payments.

Please remember that you are personally liable for any amount in excess of the agreed payment by the Department of Social Security (DWP), or indeed the whole invoice amount if a payment is not received.
If you do not qualify for a payment we may still be able to advise you on other forms of assistance.

Planning ahead

Rather than pay for the funeral from their estate, or leave the cost to a family member, some people prefer to pay in advance by setting up a Funeral Plan. Pop into any of our branches for more information and advice on setting up a funeral plan or click here for further details.

In an age where technology permeates every aspect of our lives, it’s no surprise that its influence extends to the realm of funeral services.

Here at Arthur Bryant’s Funeral Services, we recognise the importance of embracing technological advancements to provide comfort, connectivity, and support to grieving families, especially in times when physical attendance may be challenging.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the role of technology in modern funeral services and how it’s transforming the way we honour and remember our loved ones.

Live-Streaming: Bringing Loved Ones Together Across Distances

One of the most significant advancements in funeral technology is live-streaming services. Through the use of cameras and streaming platforms, we can now broadcast funeral ceremonies in real-time, allowing family members and friends who are unable to attend in person to participate remotely. Whether they’re across the country or halfway around the world, live-streaming enables loved ones to be present and support each other during moments of grief.

Video Tributes: Some stories need more than words

Whether your loved one possessed a creative flair, loved to travel, or enjoyed time in the garden, the themed video tribute brings an added layer of personalisation. This tribute can be played at your chosen time during the funeral service for a moment that truly reflects the life lived. Included in video tributes are a choice of photos which are perfectly timed to a song of your choice that reflects the life they lived.

Virtual Memorials: Creating Digital Tributes That Last

Virtual memorials offer a digital space for families to gather, share memories, and pay tribute to their loved ones. These online platforms provide a centralised hub for photos, videos, stories, and messages of condolence, allowing family members and friends to honour the deceased’s life and legacy in a meaningful way. Virtual memorials can be accessed anytime, anywhere, providing a lasting tribute that transcends physical boundaries.

Digital Guestbooks: Preserving Memories and Messages

Digital guestbooks have replaced traditional paper guestbooks, allowing attendees to leave messages of condolence and support online. These digital platforms not only streamline the process of collecting and organizing guestbook entries but also provide families with a treasure trove of memories and messages to cherish in the years to come. From heartfelt notes to shared anecdotes, digital guestbooks preserve the outpouring of love and support from friends and family members.

While technology has revolutionized the way we approach funeral services, it’s important to remember that its ultimate purpose is to enhance, rather than replace, traditional rituals and customs.

We strive to strike a balance between honouring tradition and embracing innovation, ensuring that every service reflects the unique needs and preferences of the families we care for. By harnessing the power of technology, we create meaningful and memorable experiences that honour the lives of our loved ones with dignity, respect, and compassion.