Arrange a funeral
When someone dies, arranging a funeral can feel overwhelming. You must register a death before you can make funeral arrangements. This page explains what to do next and where to get help.
Before you start
Check whether the person who died had a prepaid funeral plan or left any wishes about their funeral. A plan may cover some or all of the costs.
Funerals can be expensive. The cost is usually paid from the money the person left, or by family or friends.
If you get a means-tested benefit, you may be able to get a Funeral Expenses Payment. If you are under State Pension age, you may be able to get a Bereavement Support Payment. These payments can help with the cost of a simple funeral.
Choose a funeral director
Most people use a funeral director, also known as an undertaker. They can arrange the funeral for you, including:
- collecting and caring for the person who died
- helping you choose cremation or burial
- arranging the service at a cemetery or crematorium
- organising transport, music and flowers
Funeral directors must carry out their work in a dignified and respectful way. You can contact a funeral director at any time.
Arrange the funeral yourself
You can arrange a funeral yourself if you prefer not to use a funeral director. Our bereavement services team can answer your questions and explain the legal steps.
Choose cremation or burial
In Swindon, you can choose cremation at Kingsdown Crematorium or burial at one of our cemeteries.
Cremation at Kingsdown Crematorium
Services can be tailored to meet the needs of the person who died and the people attending. The chapel is interdenominational and accessible.
You can arrange a cremation through our bereavement services team or a funeral director.
Burial in Swindon
There are three cemeteries:
Most burials take place at Kingsdown Cemetery.
Find out more about cremation at Kingsdown Crematorium and burial at a Swindon cemetery.
Funeral costs and fees
We publish a list of cemetery and crematorium fees to help you budget.
A funeral director can give you a price list for their services. If you are arranging the funeral yourself, our bereavement services team can explain the costs.
If the funeral is for a child, or there are special circumstances, speak to us or your funeral director. There may be other funding options.
Visit before the funeral
Some people find it helpful to visit the cemetery or crematorium before the funeral. This can help children, or anyone who feels anxious.
We can show you the chapel and explain what will happen during the service. To arrange a visit, contact us or ask your funeral director.
Get bereavement support
Bereavement affects everyone differently. You may want emotional support, practical help, or both.
Our bereavement support page has information about local and national organisations that can help.
Contact us
If you have questions about arranging a funeral, or need support, contact us.