What we do when arranging for a public health funeral
We will try to identify whether there are any family members who may wish to make their own arrangements for the deceased. This is with the help of the genealogist.
If no-one is identified or have indicated that they will not make these arrangements, we will make the necessary arrangements.
Once it is confirmed that the funeral will be a public health funeral, we make the arrangements as soon as possible. This is ideally within four weeks.
Once we accept responsibility for arranging the funeral, we will deal with all aspects of the organisation.
This includes:
- registering the death if the next of kin is unable to do so
- making arrangements for the services of a local funeral director to collect the deceased
- make the arrangements for the public health funeral and the payment
Our contracted funeral directors will provide everything necessary for a simple but dignified ceremony. This includes:
- a coffin, and
- transport of the deceased to the Crematorium or Cemetery in a hearse
We are not able to arrange for the body to be viewed. Any requests received from relatives or others that will add extra costs will not be granted. Ashes will be:
- placed in a suitable container
- provided on request without charge
We may contact relevant organisations, if:
- the deceased's beliefs are known
- they were part of a faith community
They can help locate next of kin and offer guidance and helps us respect any:
- religious beliefs
- cultural reasons
- personal preferences
If a burial is required based on those beliefs, we will arrange one where possible.
If a burial is required and the deceased did not own a grave, the burial will take place in a public grave within a Southend-on-Sea City Cemetery.
A cremation service will normally be held at Southend Crematorium.
Where there is to be a service, our funeral director will arrange the lead. This will be from either a:
- minister of religion, or
- representative of the faith of the deceased
If a non-religious service is appropriate, a civil funeral celebrant will be used. The family and /or friends may be asked to select the music to be played at this service.
Where you have expressed a desire to attend, you will be provided with details of the funeral. This is so you can attend the service to pay your respects. If possible, you will be given 3 working days' notice of the date and time of the service. The service will be simple and unfortunately it will not be possible to offer alternative venues or to change the date and time. Where possible, we will attend the funeral.
We will arrange for a cremation or burial. Family and friends may wish to attend.
Following the cremation, the ashes can be placed without witness in the Gardens of Remembrance at Sutton Road Crematorium. This occurs two weeks after the service. Family members or friends can attend if they want to. The next of kin may:
- collect the ashes
- give them into the care of a close family member or friend (with their permission)
There is no charge for this.