Help and Guidance Following a Bereavement
Help and Guidance Following a Bereavement
Losing someone you love is difficult enough without worrying about the financial implications of arranging a funeral.
At Norfolk Direct Cremations, we believe every family deserves clear, honest advice about the support that may be available. Whether you need help with funeral costs or simply want guidance on your options, there are organisations and government services that can provide practical financial assistance.
If you are worried about the cost of a funeral, please don't be afraid to ask.
Our caring team will always explain your options openly, provide transparent pricing and help you choose arrangements that are right for your family and your circumstances.
Affordable, Transparent Direct Cremation
At Norfolk Direct Cremations, we believe every family should have access to dignified funeral care without unnecessary financial pressure.
Our services are designed to provide clear, straightforward pricing with no hidden costs.
Direct Cremation
£1,450
A simple, dignified unattended Direct Cremation carried out with professional care and compassion.
Direct Cremation Plus
£2,000
Including a 30-minute chapel service, professional celebrant, music, complimentary chapel viewing during opening hours and transportation to the crematorium in a traditional hearse.
Every family receives the same high standard of care, regardless of which service they choose.
Bereavement Support Payment
If your husband, wife or civil partner has died, you may be entitled to Bereavement Support Payment, a government benefit designed to provide financial assistance following a bereavement.
You may qualify if:
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You are below State Pension age.
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Your husband, wife or civil partner paid sufficient National Insurance contributions.
The payment usually consists of a lump sum followed by monthly payments, depending on your circumstances.
Bereavement Support Payment
If your husband, wife or civil partner has died, you may be entitled to Bereavement Support Payment, a government benefit designed to provide financial assistance following a bereavement.
You may qualify if:
Funeral Expenses Payment
If you receive certain income-related benefits, you may be eligible for a Funeral Expenses Payment to help towards funeral costs.
This may contribute towards:
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Cremation fees.
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Certain travel expenses.
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Death certificates and associated documentation.
Eligibility depends on your personal circumstances and the benefits you receive.
Pension Credit & State Pension Support
If you or your late partner received Pension Credit, you may be entitled to additional financial support or changes to your pension entitlement.
The Pension Service can explain what assistance may be available.
Tell Us Once
Following a bereavement, you may not need to contact every government department individually.
The Government's Tell Us Once service allows several departments to be notified at the same time, including:
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Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
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HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)
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Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)
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Passport Office
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Local Council Services
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Electoral Register
Your Registrar will normally explain this service when you register the death.
Website: https://www.gov.uk/after-a-death
Charitable Organisations Offering Financial Advice
Turn2us
Turn2us helps people access welfare benefits, charitable grants and other financial support.
MoneyHelper
A free government-backed service offering advice about budgeting, pensions, debt and financial planning following bereavement.
StepChange Debt Charity
Provides free confidential debt advice if you are worried about your finances after losing someone close to you.
Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice offers free, confidential guidance covering:
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Benefits.
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Debt.
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Probate.
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Legal matters.
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Financial planning.
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Bereavement support.
National Bereavement Service
Provides free practical guidance about:
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Funeral arrangements.
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Probate.
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Legal matters.
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Financial support.
Eligibility depends on your personal circumstances and the benefits you receive.
Emotional Support
Financial worries and grief often go hand in hand.
If you feel you would benefit from additional emotional support, the following organisations may be able to help.
Cruse Bereavement Support
Winston's Wish
Supporting bereaved children and young people.
Local Authority Support
Depending on your circumstances, Norfolk County Council or your local district council may be able to offer advice or direct you towards additional financial support services.
You can find your local council by visiting:
Our Advice
One thing we have learned over many years of supporting families is this:
Please don't struggle in silence.
Many people are unaware that financial help may be available following a bereavement, or they feel uncomfortable asking about costs.
There is absolutely no need to feel embarrassed.
Whether you simply need advice or would like to understand the different options available, we are always happy to help.
Sometimes, one conversation can provide reassurance and make everything feel a little more manageable.
We Are Here to Help
Every family's circumstances are different.
If you are concerned about funeral costs or would like to discuss the most appropriate options for your loved one, please contact our caring team.
We'll always explain your choices honestly, answer your questions and help you make informed decisions without pressure.
