01202 551190

1A Oxford Road, Lansdowne Mews, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 8EY

Call
Email
Head & Wheble Funeral Directors
arranging a funeral
Get in touch

jump to section

Registering a death / Where can you register?  / Legal responsibilities / Next of kin / Crematoriums / Cemeteries / Churches / FAQ’s / Coroners / Paying for the Funeral / Role of the Funeral Director / Funeral Arrangements / Expression of Wishes

what to do when a death occurs

at home

During the Day: Ring your normal G.P Surgery for confirmation of the death to take place. Check when your surgery opens and closes as you will not be able to get through to anyone if they are closed. A doctor from the surgery will need to visit your home to certify the death.

During the Evening & Night: If the death occurs outside of the GP’s opening times you will need to contact 111 or 999 for paramedic assistance.

t

When to call us?

Once the death has been certified by the Doctor or trained medical professional. If you require more time with the deceased, when you are ready please call us to assist you with the conveyance to our funeral home using our private ambulance and trained staff.

Nursing/Care Home

The Nursing Home will ask you to appoint and nominate a funeral director prior to the death taking place.

When the death occurs the nursing home will call you, if you are not already present. The deceased’s registered G.P Surgery or trained medical professional will be informed so the death can be confirmed. Once the death has been confirmed (certified) the funeral director is then able to convey the deceased back to the funeral home.

t

When to call us?

Once the Doctor or trained medical professional has arrived to certify the death, and you are ready, please call us to assist you with the conveyance to our funeral home using our private ambulance and trained staff.

hospital setting

Following a death in a Hospital/Hospice they will contact you if you are not already present. The Patients Affairs office Or Bereavement Office will organise all the necessary paperwork which you can go and collect usually within two working days along with any personal belongings. The Bereavement Office will ask you to nominate a funeral director to issue the hospital release form to. When the necessary paperwork has been completed, it will be the funeral director’s primary responsibility to convey your loved one into their care.

t

When to call us?

Once the Doctor or trained medical professional has arrived to certify the death, and you are ready, please call us to assist you with the conveyance to our funeral home using our private ambulance and trained staff.

police involvement

When someone dies suddenly:
All sudden or unexpected deaths must be reported to the Coroner. If the Paramedics have been called and present, they have a duty to involve the Coroner & in turn the police. The police are usually involved to ensure that there are no suspicious circumstances. The Coroner’s Contracted funeral director will convey the deceased to the public mortuary for further investigation to establish the cause of death if necessary. The Coroner will decide whether a post-mortem and/or inquest needs to be carried out if a death occurs anywhere other than in a hospital.

The contracted funeral director’s role is to convey the deceased to the public mortuary only. You may then appoint a funeral director of your choice to carry out the funeral arrangements and the funeral.

medical examiner

Since September 2024, the government has introduced a new process in which doctors confirm the cause of death of a deceased.

Medical Examiners will now work with doctors and doctors’ surgeries to confirm the cause of death before someone can register the death with the registrars. The Medical Examiner will also liaise with the coroner if they are to be involved or not.

The Process: The deceased’s General Practice where they are registered will be notified of the death and will refer the details to the Medical Examiner. The Medical Examiner will ensure they are happy for the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death to be issued by a doctor at the deceased GP’s.

The main reason for the introduction of a Medical Examiner is to streamline the process and enhance the issuing of a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death. This new process also means any doctor with prior contact with the deceased at their GP Surgery can now issue the paperwork necessary for the next of kin, executor, or any other person to register the death.

Doctor's Role

The doctor’s role is to certify and confirm when someone has passed away. From there, they are duty bound to issue the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death for the registration of a death to take place. The doctors at the deceased registered GP Practice will now work alongside the Medical Examiner to ensure the correct protocols are adhered.

registering a death

When a loved one passes away the Doctor will issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death. The informant will need this to register. Once the MCCD has been issued it is sent to the registrars along with the Next Of Kin details and legally you should register the death within 5 working days. The Registrar’s Office in the District where the death occurred will contact you to arrange an appointment date and time.

Who can Register?

A relative or partner should register the death.
If a relative or partner is unable to register the death, you can if you:
  • were there at the time of death
  • are a senior administrator from the hospital (if the person died in hospital)
  • are the manager of a care home where the person died
  • are the occupier of the building where the person died
  • are in charge of making funeral arrangements
  • are a personal representative of the deceased
We are always happy to answer any of your questions. Get in touch with us today.
Get in touch

Documentation Required

To ensure we have the correct information for your appointment, we recommend you bring the deceased’s:
  • passport
  • birth certificate
  • proof of address (for example a utility bill)
  • medical card or NHS number
  • marriage or civil partnership certificate (if applicable)
  • driving licence
  • blue badge
  • national Insurance Number
You will also need to tell the registrar the following information:
  • the person’s full name at the time of death
  • any names previously used, for example maiden name
  • the person’s date and place of birth
  • their last address
  • their occupation
  • the full name, date of birth and occupation of a surviving or late spouse or civil partner
  • whether they were getting a State Pension or any other benefits.

Tell us Once

Most local councils run a service called ‘Tell Us Once’. All Government Departments run on National Insurance Numbers so once the deceased’s National Insurance Number is entered on the Government Computer this will cancel everything to do with the Government. The Registrar will carry this out for you whilst you are there. Your Registrar will tell you about it and give you a unique reference number to access the service online or by telephone, if you do not have the National Insurance Number.
Visit tell us once

Life Ledger

You can contact all the companies connected with the deceased from a single point, saving hours of time and removing the need to have the same difficult conversation over and over again, you can use Life Ledger to inform over 1,000 UK companies, ranging from banks, insurers and pension providers to gas, water, telecoms and social media. You can track the progress of your notifications, directly contact the companies and upload required documents in one place. Three years in the planning and with bank-level security, Life Ledger is Cyber Essentials certified, is undergoing ISO27001 certification and undergoes regular security and penetration testing to ensure your information is safe.
Visit Life Ledger

Where can you register?

Registrars in Dorset

Bournemouth Town Hall

Town Hall,
Bournemouth
BH2 6DY

Poole Guildhall

The Guildhall
Market St
Poole
BH15 1NF

Christchurch Registration Office

29 High St
Christchurch
BH23 1AW

Wimborne Registration Office

The Hanham Centre
Hanham Rd
Wimborne
BH21 1AS

Registrars in Hampshire

Ringwood Registration Office

Ringwood Gateway
The Furlong, Ringwood
BH24 1AT

Lymington Registration Office

Lymington Registration Office
Lymington Library,
North Close,
Lymington
SO41 9BW

Documents you will receive

The Certificate of Burial or Cremation (Green Form) will be sent directly to the funeral directors.

The Certified Copy of An Entry also known as the ‘Death certificate’ cost £12.50 each and can be paid for by card payment during your appointment, you will be able to take them away with you.

Alternatively, you can order them online

Contact information

For deaths in Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole, please contact us by:

 

Registration by declaration

If you live in a different part of the country from where the deceased has passed away and can’t attend the local area to register the death. You can register the death in your local registrars by declaration who will send the registration details to the local registrars where the death has occurred. Registering by declaration will take longer to complete.

For more information click below:

visit gov.uk

General Register Office
Obtaining a historic Death Certificate after the registration.
General Register Office (GRO) – Official information on births, marriages, civil partnerships and deaths.

How To Guide
General Register Office – A how to guide for customers

Crematoriums

Bournemouth

Set within the grounds of North Cemetery, Bournemouth Crematorium offers tranquil setting for a funeral service.

Chapels
There are 2 chapels at the crematorium, so you can choose the right setting for the ceremony. Both chapels are fitted with quality sound systems and offer a wide choice of recorded music to accompany the service. Beside the chapels there’s a floral court where mourners can view floral tributes after the service. There’s also a comfortable waiting room.

The West Chapel seats up to 40 people and is ideal for an intimate service of close family and friends. You can book a service at the West Chapel at a quarter to or past the hour, from 9am to 3:15pm Monday to Friday & Saturday.

The East Chapel seats up to 100 people and has an organ for live music during larger memorial services. You can arrange a service at this chapel on the hour or half past the hour from 9am to 3:30pm Monday to Friday & Saturday

Address:
Strouden Ave, Bournemouth BH8 9HX
Tel: 01202 128111
Email: bereavementcare@bcpcouncil.gov.uk
Office Opening Hours:
Monday – Friday 11am to 3pm

Poole

The Halo Ceremony Hall is located in grounds of Poole Crematorium, Gravel Hill and can accommodate up to 120 seated guests.

With a modern approach this venue is a desired place to hold a funeral service, or a memorial service, for your loved one.

The interior boasts comfortable individual seating, atmospheric lighting in the ceiling, to each side, there are stunning hand-painted scenes of local landscapes and nature. With the gentle lighting and resplendent murals, our visitors can be totally transformed to a place of peace and reflection. Concluding the service, you’ll exit past the hand painted Mural of a stag set within the Dorset countryside leading to the flower court for displayed floral tributes.

Address:
Gravel Hill, Broadstone, Bournemouth, Poole BH17 9BQ
Tel: 01202 128111
Email: berevementcare@bcpcouncil.gov.uk
Office Opening Hours:
Monday – Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm

New Forest

Located on the fringes of the New Forest National Park.

The chapel is fitted with a state-of-the-art media system and large screens, providing live webcasts, visual tributes and an almost unlimited music library to personalise services. The chapel seats 117 mourners, with further standing spaces available. Speakers located in the lobby area and under the porte cochère give the opportunity for those unable to enter the chapel to hear the service clearly, allowing larger numbers of mourners to attend a service.
The floral tribute area is set slightly away from the chapel, offering a peaceful area for families and friends to gather in a quiet location following a service. Floral tributes remain on display for a minimum of two days, unless we receive alternative instructions.
There are 111 allocated parking spaces, including 4 disabled parking spaces.

Address:
New Forest Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Stem Ln, New Milton BH25 5FH
Tel: 01425 201220
Email: newforest@westerleighgroup.co.uk
Office Opening Hours:
Monday – Friday 9am to 5pm

Cemeteries

There are 9 cemeteries within the district of Bournemouth, Poole & Christchurch. Most have service chapels available to accommodate for a small service prior to the burial taking place. They aren’t very large so it would be recommended to have a service in a larger venue if you are expecting a large attendance. There’s a choice of consecrated and non-consecrated burial areas to provide for all faiths and beliefs. Graves are prepared in advance of the burial taking place. The Cemetery attendant, our funeral director & the coffin bearers will be on hand to make sure everything runs smoothly. There can be up to three full burials in each grave. If you’d like to make a family plot for future generations, you must ask for this at the first burial. Up to 6 sets of cremated remains can also be buried in a grave once there’s no more room for coffins.

Exclusive Right of Burial

Whilst making the arrangements for the burial, we will offer you to purchase the grave to obtain the Exclusive Right of Burial for a period that is currently offered by the cemetery authority. The cost of the purchase of the grave will depend on the grave you have selected. Following the burial, providing the grave has been purchased by an individual, you reserve the right to erect a memorial headstone on the grave. *Without purchasing the grave, you cannot erect a memorial on the grave.

Graveside Service

We have many requests for a graveside service. This is where the hearse with the coffin and the cortege drive direct to grave in the selected cemetery and an open-air service is conducted at the graveside. The coffin is usually placed on the grave whilst the service takes place. An officiant can be arranged to conduct the service alongside a family member, or a family member can take control of the entire service should they wish to. Once the service has concluded the coffin is then lowered into the grave.

Burial/Committal Following a Service

A service in a separate location to the cemetery can take place prior or following the Burial taking place. This is a popular choice for funeral arrangements if you have a specific venue, you would like the service to take place. Religious services in a church setting are popular with this arrangement, alternatively, a memorial service in a hotel or non-religious setting after the burial has taken place is increasingly becoming the norm.

Bournemouth Cemeteries

wimbourne road cemetery

Address:
Wimborne Road, Bournemouth, BH9 2E
see map

north cemetery

Address:
Strouden Avenue, Bournemouth, BH8 9H
see map

boscombe east cemetery

Address:
Gloucester Road, Boscombe, Bournemouth, BH7 6J
see map

kinson cemetery

Address:
28 South Kinson Drive, Bournemouth, BH11 8AB
see map

Poole Cemeteries

poole cemetery

Address:
113 Old Farm Road, Poole, BH15 3LN
see map

parkstone cemetery

Address:
Elgin Road, Parkstone, Poole, BH14 8RD
see map

branksome cemetery

Address:
21 Highview Gardens, Poole, BH12 3HH
see map

broadstone cemetery

Address:
83 Dunyeats Road, Broadstone, Poole, BH18 8AF
see map

Christchurch Cemeteries

christchurch cemetery

Address:
2JR Jumpers Road, Christchurch, BH23 2JR
see map

Available 24/7

01202 551190

info@headandwheble.co.uk

Ready to talk?


    Your Details



    Enquiry Details



    * Required


    Churches

    For Centuries Churches have been at the beating heart of communities for religious services, celebrations and funerals. Today we still conduct many funerals in churches and churchyards across Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch & Dorset. There are many different non-secular venues that can accommodate for small or large attended service. Usually, the deceased will have attended a specific church which will determine the church and Minister appointed to carry out the funeral service.

    Church Of England

    Anglican churches offer a traditional and spiritually significant setting for a funeral, often appealing to those who wish to honour their loved one’s faith or family heritage. The familiar rituals and ceremonies can provide comfort and a sense of continuity, while the sacred space and beautiful architecture create a reverent atmosphere for remembrance and reflection.
    Roman Catholic
    Catholic churches are preferred by families who wish to hold funerals that follow Catholic rites, including prayers, a full Mass, and the final commendation. These services focus on the hope of eternal life, bringing comfort through established rituals and communal support. The church setting reinforces a connection with faith and offers a sacred environment for saying goodbye.

    United Reform

    These churches blend Presbyterian and Congregational traditions, making them suitable for those who appreciate inclusive, respectful services from teachings of the Bible. Funerals here can be tailored to reflect the deceased’s religious values, making them ideal for families seeking a welcoming environment regardless of background.

    Baptist

    Baptist churches are often chosen for their straightforward, heartfelt funeral ceremonies, which highlight personal faith and the individuality of the person being remembered. The close-knit community and supportive atmosphere can help families honour their loved one in a meaningful and uplifting way.

    Spiritualist

    Spiritualist venues are selected by those who wish to acknowledge beliefs in the continuation of the soul after death. Services may include spiritual readings, mediums, and messages from loved ones, offering comfort and reassurance for families seeking a more mystical or non-traditional approach to saying farewell.

    Methodist

    Methodist churches are known for their compassionate and hopeful services, focusing on love, community, and the promise of new life. Families might choose this venue for its supportive congregation, structured ceremonies, and the comfort of familiar hymns and prayers.

    Vineyard

    These modern, informal Christian venues are ideal for families who prefer a contemporary and relaxed atmosphere. Services often feature uplifting music and personal tributes. Vineyard churches are popular with those who want to celebrate life in a less traditional but still spiritual setting.

    Citygate

    non-denominational or community-focused, Citygate venues offer flexibility for personalised services. They are suitable for families wanting to tailor the ceremony to the individual’s personality, beliefs, and life story, whether faith-based or secular in nature.

    Alternative Funeral Venues & Memorial Services

    The Italian Villa
    This elegant venue, set in landscaped gardens, is chosen for its beauty and peaceful surroundings. It’s ideal for those desiring a serene, non-religious location for a funeral or memorial, with the opportunity to personalise the event in a sophisticated and private setting.
    At Home
    Holding a funeral or memorial at home allows for an intimate farewell surrounded by familiar comforts. This option gives families complete control over the ceremony and is especially meaningful for smaller gatherings, offering warmth, privacy, and a deeply personal touch.
    Community Centre(s)
    Practical and flexible, community centres appeal to families seeking an accessible venue for large or small gatherings, regardless of religious affiliation. They are often used for receptions following a funeral or as a neutral space for celebrating a life with friends, neighbours, and the broader community.
    Royal British Legion
    Royal British Legion or similar clubs are commonly chosen for veterans or those with military connections. Funerals or memorials here often include ceremonial honours and a strong sense of tradition, providing a fitting tribute to a life of service.

    Memorial Services

    Some families opt for a separate memorial service, either in addition to or instead of a funeral. Venues dedicated to memorial services allow for a focus on celebrating the person’s achievements and legacy and are often chosen when a private or direct cremation has taken place elsewhere.
    Conservative Clubs
    These social clubs offer function rooms suitable for funeral receptions, allowing families to gather informally to share stories, food, and memories. They provide a community-oriented atmosphere for reflection and support following the formal service.
    Hotels/Reception Rooms
    Hotels and reception suites are selected for their professional service, convenience, and comfortable environment. They are ideal for funeral receptions or celebration-of-life events, offering catering options and space for guests to come together and remember in a relaxed setting.

    Funeral Arrangements

    Head & Wheble funeral directors are experienced in assisting with every aspect of a funeral. With 100 years of expertise. The funeral director offers to support you during funeral arrangements to ensure you know all your options and find the service that’s right for you.
    Within our facilities we have a chapel of rest, ready to accommodate the deceased where we can take care of them until you are happy with your funeral arrangements, allowing your family and friends to visit and say their farewells.

    If the deceased hasn’t made their wishes known, the choice of funeral is an important decision for the family to make and can be a difficult one. There may be personal influences such as religion and tradition throughout the family. Your funeral director will be able to advise you about the various options and what these processes involve. This will help your family to decide the type of funeral that is most suitable for them.

    Burial
    If you choose a burial, you will need to consider many personal factors, if there is already a family plot or a particular cemetery you would like to use. You will also need to consider the type of memorial you would like to place at the burial site following the funeral. Considerations must also be decided to which type of coffin or casket, and whether you would like your loved one to be buried with any personal belongings (There are far less restrictions for a burial than cremation).
    Cremations
    If you choose a cremation, you need to consider whether you’d like the service at a crematorium or a church. Your funeral director will be able to hold the deceased’s ashes for you until you have decided about what you’d like to do with them. We can arrange to scatter, inter or have them transported to anywhere in the world at your request. Equally, you may wish to have a decorative Urn to keep the ashes at home with you or special place significant to you and/or the deceased.
    Woodland Burial
    Options also include the increasingly popular green funerals with cardboard or wicker coffins and woodland burials. As cemeteries and churchyards reach capacity and concerns about the environment loom larger in our daily lives, our woodland burials are becoming increasingly popular.
    Location of The Funeral
    We operate mainly within Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole. Dorset, Hampshire and throughout the United Kingdom when asked. However, there are scenarios where the deceased will pass away outside the county or district of where the funeral director is located. Whether the funeral service takes places locally to us or a different part of England we can conduct funeral arrangements with you digitally for this to be achieved. We may advise to appoint a local funeral director if the service is to take place in Scotland, Wales or Ireland and the deceased will be conveyed to their funeral home by ourselves prior to the funeral taking place.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What does a funeral director do?

    A funeral director is a professional who assists families and loved ones following a death. They organise and coordinate all aspects of the funeral, from transporting the deceased to planning the ceremony, managing legal paperwork, liaising with cemeteries or crematoria, and providing emotional support throughout the process.

    How soon after a death should I contact a funeral director?

    You should contact a funeral director as soon as possible after a death occurs, especially if the person has died at home or in a non-hospital setting. The funeral director will guide you through the immediate next steps, including arranging for the transfer of your loved one into their care.

    Do I have to use a funeral director?
    In most regions, you are not legally required to use a funeral director, but many families find their expertise and guidance invaluable during a difficult time. Funeral directors can handle paperwork, logistics, and ensure that all legal requirements are met.
    What are the main types of funeral services?

    There are several types of funeral services, including:

    • Traditional burial services
    • Cremation services
    • Green or eco-friendly burials
    • Direct cremations (without a service)
    • Memorial services held separately from the burial or cremation
    Can I personalise the funeral service?

    Absolutely. Funeral directors work with families to create a service that reflects the life and personality of the deceased. You can choose music, readings, floral arrangements, and other personalised touches to honour your loved one’s memory.

    What happens if a death occurs outside normal business hours?

    Most funeral directors offer a 24-hour service and can be contacted at any time, day or night. They will arrange for the timely transfer of the deceased and begin necessary preparations, ensuring families receive support no matter when the death occurs.

    How much does a funeral cost?

    The cost of a funeral varies depending on the type of service, location, and specific choices made (such as coffin type, flowers, transportation, etc.). Funeral directors provide detailed price lists and can help you understand all the costs involved so you can make an informed decision.

    According to SunLife Insurance, the average cost of a funeral in the United Kingdom is £4,056 as of 2023. This figure includes essential elements such as the cremation or burial fee, professional services, and other necessary expenses, but does not account for optional items like flowers, catering, or memorials, which can significantly increase the overall cost.

    Are there payment plans or assistance for funeral costs?

    Many funeral directors offer payment plans to help families manage the cost. In some cases, government assistance or grants may be available. Your funeral director can advise you on what support may be accessible in your area. Funeral Safe (Hyperlink) allows you to pay the funeral you would like and you are able to this off monthly with no early settlement fee.

    What is included in a funeral director’s fee?

    Typically, the funeral director’s fee covers professional services such as making arrangements, handling documentation, coordinating with third parties (clergy, celebrants, cemeteries, etc.), and conducting the funeral. Additional costs, like cemetery/crematorium fees or catering, may be itemised separately.

    What paperwork is needed when someone dies?

    You’ll need a medical certificate of cause of death, which is usually provided by a doctor. The next of Kin, family member or Executor can then register the death with the local authorities and obtain copies of the death certificate, which you’ll need for legal and financial matters.

    Can a funeral director help with legal documents?

    Yes. Funeral directors are experienced in managing the required legal paperwork and can guide you through the registration of the death, obtaining certificates, and, if necessary, liaising with solicitors or government offices.

    Can children attend funerals?

    Children are welcome at funerals, and many families find it helps them understand and process grief. We are able to offer guidance about involving children in the ceremony in an age-appropriate way.

    Can I see my loved one before the funeral?

    Yes, We have three chapels of rest at our funeral home for viewing or visitation, allowing family and friends a private moment with their loved one prior to the funeral service. The funeral director will explain how and when these visits can be arranged.

    Is embalming required?
    Embalming is not always required, but it may be necessary for viewing purposes, if there is a long period of time before the funeral, or if the body will be transported over long distances. Your funeral director can discuss your wishes and advise on the best options for your situation.
    What should my loved one wear for the funeral?
    Families usually provide clothing that is meaningful or appropriate for the deceased. If no preference is expressed, the funeral home can provide suitable garments. The choice is entirely personal and should reflect your loved one’s personality, beliefs, or wishes. For cremation there are restrictions on certain man-made materials.
    What is the difference between burial and cremation?
    Burial involves placing the body in a coffin, which is then interred in the ground or placed in a mausoleum. Cremation is the process of reducing the body to ashes, which can be kept, scattered, or interred according to the family’s wishes.
    Can I still have a funeral service with cremation?
    Certainly. Many families hold a traditional funeral service before the cremation, or choose a memorial service after the cremation has taken place. Funeral directors can help plan a service that fits your wishes.
    What can I do with the ashes after cremation?
    Options include keeping the ashes in an urn, scattering them in a meaningful location (as permitted by local laws), interring them in a cemetery, or creating keepsakes such as jewellery. Discuss your ideas with the funeral director to ensure all arrangements are carried out respectfully and legally.
    Can religious or cultural traditions be accommodated?
    Funeral directors are experienced in working with a wide range of religious and cultural practices. Be sure to discuss any special traditions or requests during the planning process, so they can ensure your wishes are honoured.
    Can I pre-arrange or pre-pay for a funeral?

    Yes, many people choose to pre-arrange and even pre-pay for their own funeral, easing the burden on their families and ensuring their wishes are met. We can guide you through the options available and help you put a plan in place. Pre-paid funeral plans are available but must comply with Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulations. We also offer Funeral Instruction forms you can leave with your family and/or solicitor without any pre-payment.

    What support is available for families after the funeral?
    Head & Wheble offer bereavement support through various channels or can refer you to counselling and support groups. We understand that grief does not end with the funeral and are there to help you through the difficult days that follow.
    Can the funeral director help with memorials or headstones?

    Yes, we have our own in-house memorial masons to assist you in choosing and ordering a memorial, headstone, or plaque, and we will liaise with cemeteries on your behalf. We would also be able to take care of any existing headstones required to be removed for a second burial/interment.

    Is it possible to have a green or eco-friendly funeral?
    Yes. Eco-friendly options such as biodegradable coffins, woodland burials, and natural memorials are increasingly available. Discuss your preferences with our funeral director, who can outline the environmentally sustainable choices in our area.
    What happens if a loved one dies abroad?
    Head & Wheble provide assistance with repatriation, ensuring your loved one is returned home. This process can be complex, but our funeral directors are experienced in handling the necessary arrangements and paperwork.

    The Coroner’s Role

    A Coroner is an independent judicial officer. They are assisted by Coroner’s Officers and secretarial staff.

    The Coroner investigates and records the causes and circumstances of all deaths where the cause is unknown, or that was violent or unnatural, or occurred whilst the deceased was in lawful custody.

    If the doctor has referred the death to the coroner, you can’t register the death until the coroner has issued the relevant paperwork. You’ll need to wait until a coroner’s officer contacts you to discuss the death. They will then contact us with your details so that we can call you to book an appointment if this is needed.

    The Coroners Team

    Senior Coroner for Dorset is Mrs Rachael Griffin.
    Area Coroner for Dorset is Mr Brendan Allen.

    Assistant Coroners
    Mr Richard Middleton
    Mr Grant Davies
    Mrs Victoria Cook
    Mrs Deborah Rookes.

    You can contact them at the Coroner’s Office. The Senior Coroner for Dorset covers deaths that occur in the administrative county of Dorset or where the body of a deceased person is found in Dorset, even if they died elsewhere. The Assistant Coroners act when the Senior Coroner is not available. They have the full powers of the Senior Coroner.

    If you are concerned about a death you are entitled to raise these concerns with the Coroner.

    Opening Hours:
    Monday to Thursday 9am to 4pm
    Fridays 9am to 3.30pm
    Except for Bank Holidays, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

    Our address is :
    Civic Centre, Bourne Avenue,
    Bournemouth. BH2 6DY.
    01202 123 900
    coroner.service@bcpcouncil.gov.uk

    For More Information

    paying for the funeral

    At Head & Wheble we have accept a range of different payment methods to suit you. We do not ask for a deposit prior to the funeral service taking place. Payments are requested following the day of the funeral. We feel it is important to focus on the funeral arrangements leading up to the day avoiding any financial worry in what can be quite an intense period. We will discuss with you throughout the cost of everything and during the arrangement a written estimate will be provided to give you an idea of the costs involved with the funeral you are planning.

    Bank Payment

    Please ensure you add our funeral reference number to the transfer reference – please ask the funeral director or a member of our team for the bank account details.

    Cash or Cheque

    All cheques should be made payable to Head & Wheble Funeral Directors

    Debit or Credit Card

    We accept all major credit cards (Not American Express) – we do not make a charge for payments by card
    Support from the Department of Working and Pensions

    The Department of Work and Pensions will provide a maximum of £1,000 for the funeral director’s fee and in addition a contribution to the disbursements (fees Head & Wheble Funeral Directors pays on your behalf i.e. crematorium fees).

    Funeral Expenses Payment can help to pay for some of the costs of the following:

    • Burial fees for a particular plot
    • Cremation fees, including the cost of the doctor’s certificate
    • Travel to arrange or go to the funeral
    • The cost of moving the body within the UK, if it’s being moved more than 50 miles
    • Death certificates or other documents
    The payment will not usually cover all of the costs of the funeral. How much you get depends on your circumstances. This includes any other money that’s available to cover the costs, for example from an insurance policy or the deceased person’s estate.

    Who Qualifies for Assistance?

    You can get help towards the cost of a funeral if you meet the following conditions. You or your partner are getting one of the following qualifying benefits:
    • Universal Credit
    • Income Support
    • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
    • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
    • Pension Credit
    • Housing Benefit
    • The disability or severe disability element of Working Tax Credit
    • Child Tax Credit
    • Support for Mortgage Interest loan
    You can also apply if you or your partner are waiting to hear about a claim for one of these benefits or payments. We use partner to mean:
    • A person you live with who is your husband, wife or civil partner, or
    • A person you live with as if you are a married couple
    You must meet the following criteria:
    • You or your partner arranged the funeral in the United Kingdom (UK), and the adult who died had their main home in the UK when they died (by United Kingdom (UK) we mean England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland)
    • You or your partner arranged the funeral and you have claimed within 6 months of the date of the funeral
    Apply For Assistance
    If you think you qualify and want to make an application – please complete the relevant form:

    Adult Funeral
    Adult /funeral Claim Form Notes
    Child Funeral
    Child Funeral Claim Form Notes

    You must inform us that you wish to make a claim – if you do not this may lead to a postponement of the funeral.

    Call the government’s bereavement service helpline (0345 606 0265) or visit their website www.gov.uk/funeral-payments – to find out how to get help with funeral payments and if you’re entitled to any help.

    For More Information, Click Here for our Blog: Help With Funeral Costs Blog

    Pre-Paid Funeral Plans

    If the deceased has organised a Pre-Paid Funeral Plan from a provider, there will be no further costs due to the person arranging the funeral. In Some instances, additional extra’s may be requested during or after the funeral arrangement which will be at an additional cost at the time.

    Providing no extras are added at the time or after the arrangement we will receive payment from the Funeral Plan Provider after the funeral has taken place.

    learn more about pre-paid funeral plans

    role of the funeral director

    The funeral director’s role can’t be understated. First and foremost, their role is one of providing compassionate support and advice on all aspects of arranging a funeral while, behind the scenes, ensuring everything is managed on your behalf to the highest professional standards you would expect.

    At the same time, funeral directors can guide you on how best to plan for your own funeral or that of a loved one, including options for spreading the cost of a funeral with a pre-paid funeral plan and making a record of your expression of wishes.

    All SAIF member funeral directors will explain and discuss all the choices available to you in arranging a funeral, including being 100% clear about the costs involved upfront.

    Depending on your wishes, the role of the funeral director may include the following:

    Prior to the Funeral
    • Transferring the deceased to a mortuary or assisting if you prefer the deceased to remain at home or liaising with a repatriation company for deaths abroad
    • Organising the deceased to be held at a chapel of rest to allow friends and relatives to view prior to the funeral
    • Placing any notices of death in local or national newspapers or on websites
    • Managing and advising on the necessary legal documentation
    • Advising on all aspects of the funeral including types of service and the options available to you including choices of coffins and caskets, venues and catering, priests or non-religious celebrant, vehicles, music and flowers, Order of Service sheet, donations and types of memorials
    One the Day
    • Ensuring everything goes smoothly on the day according to your wishes and those of the deceased
    • Attending to every detail during the day from arranging transport for family and close friends to overseeing the funeral service and procedures at the cemetery or crematorium
    • Arranging for the deceased ashes to be provided to you, helping arrange for you to scatter them or preserve them
    • Collecting ‘obituary’ or attendance cards so you know who attended
    Following the Funeral
    • Where required, arranging the deceased or their ashes to be transferred to another location, whether within the UK or overseas
    • Arranging for funeral flowers and donations to be forwarded to the relevant people, organisation or charity
    • Organising graves and headstones to be put in place at a suitable time after a burial or ashes placed

    Expression of Wishes

    Plan ahead – Make your wishes known
    Reading this you may think it an oddity of the thought of planning your own funeral, no matter your age. Our aim is to encourage thought and conversation on planning your funeral. The only way to do this is to make people aware they can do this but not necessarily having to pay for it upfront. A Pre-Plan consists of your funeral wishes bequeathed with your next of kin, Executor, or solicitor to explain the details you would like included during your funeral.
    Why expression of wishes?

    Planning ahead allows you to exercise thoughts on your funeral preference, whether you have previously discussed this with a family member, friends or a confident. This topic may have never crossed your mind, and that’s fine too, now is a good time start. We all think we’re going to live eternally and that our end point will never happen. Our mind often veers away from such a thought, but the truth is, it will happen if you choose to ignore or confront it. Being proactive and planning your funeral can avoid disputes and bring a peace of mind to your family during funeral arrangements. Expression of Wishes avoids this and allows you to retain the money in your estate until it is required.

    This is an alternative to a pre-paid funeral plan, insurance policies & life insurance.

    Why choose Head & Wheble?

    We are an independent family run funeral directors established in 1926 to help and advise families, friends, and wider communities through bereavement during all aspects of the funeral. Professional standards are adhered through membership of our governing body, the NAFD (National Association of Funeral Directors). We are a modernising traditional company with traditional values that can accommodate for everyone’s needs.

    What if I want to change my Funeral wishes?
    Like a last will and testament can be amended at any point until the power of attorney comes into affect or you pass away, so can your pre-planned funeral arrangements.
    This is not a pre-paid funeral plan
    A pre-paid funeral plan consists of confirming funeral arrangements with a cost upfront, monthly instalments or a one of payment. Funeral Plan companies charge an admin fee for setting up a pre-paid funeral plan on your behalf. The costs are not guaranteed as funeral plan companies cannot guarantee disbursement costs they will contribute towards them.
    Direct Cremation (Unattended Cremation)
    Burial/ Cremation Funeral (Attended Funeral)
    Contact Details
    If you would like more information on how to plan ahead for your funeral with our expression of wishes document, please call us to book an appointment to come and speak to one of our funeral directors.

    testimonials

    More Testimonials