Giving in memory of someone you love can feel like a small gesture.
But it often becomes one of the most meaningful parts of a funeral.
And the good news is this. Today, it’s easier, clearer, and more thoughtful than ever.
In this guide, we explain what in memoriam donations are, how they work today, and how they can help families create something positive during a difficult time.
If you are planning locally, you can also learn more about our funeral services in Tunbridge Wells and how donations fit into the wider process.
In memoriam donations are contributions made to a charity in memory of someone who has died.
They are usually collected during or after a funeral. Instead of sending flowers, friends and family can give to a cause that meant something to the person.
This creates a lasting tribute. Something that continues beyond the day itself.
If you’re arranging a service, you may also want to read about funeral arrangements in Tunbridge Wells, where donations can be included as part of the plan.
Across the UK, this approach has become more common in recent years [1].
In this short video, Simon Welham explains how donation practices have changed and why many families now prefer online tribute pages .
For many families, donations feel more personal.
They offer a way to turn remembrance into something that helps others.
Here’s why people choose them:
Some families include donations as part of a celebration of life service, where the focus is on memories and meaning.
Others see them as a thoughtful option when considering funeral costs, allowing guests to give in a different way.
Not long ago, donations were collected in a very simple way.
You would often see a plate or envelope at the back of a church. People would leave cash, and it would be counted later.
But things have shifted.
Cash is used less often today. Banks are fewer. And handling money at a funeral can feel awkward or stressful [2].
So, what’s replaced it?
Here’s a clear comparison of how things used to work and how they work now.
| Aspect | Traditional Approach | Modern Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Payment method | Cash in envelopes or plates | Online donations, cheques |
| Collection process | Hand-collected at service | Digital and automatic |
| Tracking donations | Manual counting | Clear digital records |
| Transparency | Limited visibility | Fully traceable |
| Convenience | Local only | From anywhere |
| Security | Risk of loss or error | Secure systems |
| Extra benefits | None | Gift Aid adds value |
This change removes pressure from families. It also makes the whole process clearer for everyone involved.
The meaning behind donations has stayed the same. But how we give has changed.
Before 2000
2000–2019
Post-2020
Today
Online tribute pages are now the most common way to collect donations.
Platforms like MuchLoved [3]Â allow families to create a dedicated page.
People can:
Funds go directly to the chosen charity, which keeps everything clear.
This is often used alongside services such as direct cremation, where simplicity is important.
In most cases, no.
Cash is now rarely accepted.
This avoids:
Instead, people donate online or give by cheque.
A funeral director in Tunbridge Wells can guide you through the best option.
It’s natural to wonder where donations go.
Today, the process is clear.
After the service, donations are finalised as part of what happens after the funeral.
This gives families peace of mind.
Gift Aid allows charities to claim an extra 25% on donations.
So, a £20 donation becomes £25.
It doesn’t cost the donor anything extra.
Most online platforms include this automatically [4].
At Welham Jones, support doesn’t stop at the service.
Families are helped with:
This support sits alongside services such as traditional funerals, where every detail is handled with care.
These donations create something lasting.
They:
It’s a simple act, but it carries meaning long after the day has passed.
No. Donations are optional.
Yes. Most tribute pages stay open for weeks.
Any registered charity.
Yes. Online systems provide clear records.
Some families choose this, others include both.
In memoriam donations have changed over time.
But their purpose has not.
They offer a way to remember someone while helping others.
And today, they are simpler, clearer, and easier for families to manage.
[1] “MuchLoved Giving and Donations,” MuchLoved, https://www.muchloved.com/giving/
[2] “UK Payment Statistics,” Bank of England, https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/statistics/payment-services
[3] “Tribute Funds Explained,” MuchLoved, https://www.muchloved.com/giving/tribute-funds/
[4] “Gift Aid: What It Is and How It Works,” GOV.UK, https://www.gov.uk/donating-to-charity/gift-aid
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As a family-run, independent funeral director with over 30 years’ experience, we have noticed the steady drift towards cremation when families are arranging a funeral. However, burial or cremation remains a deeply personal choice, so this guide will help you understand the differences, costs and considerations before you decide.
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