Funeral funding, costs and legalities

Is this for you?

This online course is for anyone whose work regularly brings them into contact with clients who have life-limiting or life-threatening conditions, or who have experienced a bereavement.

Who are the trainers?

Down to Earth runs a free helpline that is the only UK-wide practical support service for people struggling with funeral costs.

National Bereavement Service provides a free telephone helpline to families seeking practical support and guidance after losing a loved one.

9 September, 10:00 - 13:00 - run by Down to Earth:

What you'll get out of it:

• Knowledge of the range of funeral options and the cost implications;
• Ways to help your clients save money when planning a funeral;
• Awareness of options for raising money to help pay for a funeral;
• Understanding of the eligibility criteria for key state benefits and payments;
• Additional resources to support clients in funeral planning.

What your clients will gain:

• Improved support and confidence to explore funeral options that align their wishes, needs and budget;
• Knowledge and awareness to reduce the risk of debt from funeral costs;
• More options to explore when raising money to help pay for a funeral.

What is covered:

• Elements of a funeral bill;
• Practical ways to reduce the cost of a funeral;
• Raising money for funeral costs;
• Statutory bereavement benefits and payments;
• Accessing non-statutory funding.

10 September, 10:00 - 13:00 - National Bereavement Service:

What you'll get out of it:

• Awareness of the different legal aspects connected to bereavement;
• Understanding of the role of an Executor in dealing with an estate;
• How to source good legal representation and when it might be needed;
• Knowledge of counselling and/or emotional support options.

What your clients will gain:

• Greater knowledge and awareness of where to get free practical/legal help and emotional counselling/support;
• A clear understanding of the importance of a will and Executor responsibilities;
• Clarity around probate - what it is, when it is required and the options available.

What is covered:

• Wills – importance of having one and where to get one;
• Probate – when is it necessary; DIY vs Solicitor; difficult family dynamics;
• The role of the Executor in dealing with an estate;
• Tips on finding good legal representation;
• Sources of counselling and/or emotional support.

Booking and payment options

Bookings can be made for both sessions or just one, dependent on the content you are interested in.

We set our pricing structure based on your organisation's ability to pay:

• Non-profit organisations with annual income under £500,000 - one session £70 / both sessions £120
• Non-profit organisations with annual income over £500,000, and public sector - one session £100 / both sessions £180
• For-profit businesses - one session £130 / both sessions £240