Doing everything yourself
For some people the correct course of action is to do everything personally. You are completely within your rights to do this and we at Westmill will support you as much as we can to help you make this happen.
If you wish to take this approach then we would suggest you plan as much as possible in advance. Things to think about include:
- How you are going to transport the deceased – What vehicle will you use? What container will you use if you need to collect them from a hospital mortuary?
- Where will you keep the deceased while arrangements are being made for their final resting place? If it’s summer, how will you keep them cool?
- Will you be able to cope with washing and dressing them ?
- Do you have people who can help you with lifting and carrying?
- Do you understand the legal requirements for registering the death and providing the correct paperwork required by crematoriums and burial grounds?
- Do you know where to get a coffin or shroud from? Coffins ordered from the internet can be of varying quality and many providers do not supply to individuals. Check out the information on the Good Funeral Guide website and the Natural Death Centre for handy advice. See resource list below.
Families who choose to do this often find it deeply rewarding and say it helps their grieving process but you must be sure it is right for everyone involved. If you choose to make this journey without a funeral director we at Westmill will be happy to advise but please note we cannot provide staff or facilities in place of a funeral director and we do not sell coffins.