Planning a funeral, whether for a loved one or for yourself in advance, is one of the most personal decisions you’ll ever make. It’s also one that often has to be made quickly, and during a time of great emotional stress. That’s why it’s so important to feel confident that the funeral director you choose is the right fit for your family. As a family-run, independent funeral director with branches across West Kent and South East London, we understand how crucial trust, transparency and compassion are when supporting someone through loss. Here’s how to make sure you’re in safe hands from the very start.
When someone you love dies, or when you’re thinking about your own funeral, it’s natural to feel unsure about where to turn. There’s a lot to think about, often in a very short space of time. That’s why it’s so important to choose a funeral director who not only knows what they’re doing, but also treats you with real kindness and care.
A good funeral director will listen to what matters most to you. They won’t rush you or overwhelm you. They’ll take the time to explain your choices, guide you gently through the process, and do their very best to carry out your wishes with compassion and respect.
A good place to start is by checking whether the funeral director is a member of a recognised professional body such as the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) or the National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF). Membership of these bodies is a strong indicator that a funeral director operates professionally and ethically, as these organisations hold their members to strict codes of conduct, including clear and honest pricing, compassionate care, and professional standards. It also gives you added reassurance that, in the unlikely case that something were to go wrong, you would have a clear path to escalate your concerns.
You might also find it helpful to read reviews and testimonials from other families who’ve been through something similar. Or talk to someone you trust; maybe a friend, a neighbour, your local minister or care home manager. Word of mouth can be really powerful, especially during such a tough time, and can often lead you to someone who truly understands what you are going through.
At Welham Jones, we’re not only proud members of the NAFD and SAIF, but equally as proud to be a family-run team who have looked after families across West Kent and South East London for over 30 years. We believe that every person is unique, and every goodbye should be too. That’s why we take the time to really listen, so we can help you say goodbye in the way that feels right to you.
If you’re someone who likes to plan ahead, or if you just want to make things a little easier for your family one day, opting for pre-paid funeral plan can be an empowering and thoughtful choice; allowing you to make decisions in your own time. Many find comfort in being driver’s seat about what kind of funeral you’d like, who you’d want there, and what sort of feeling you want the day to have. You can also choose how much you want to spend and know that those costs won’t change later. It’s a quiet, kind way to take care of the people you love most.
All our funeral plans are designed with transparency, compassion, and care, and supported by Ecclesiastical Planning Services, meaning your money is protected and your wishes are safe.
For many people, planning ahead brings a real sense of calm. It lifts a weight; not just from their own minds, but from the hearts of those who love them. When the time comes, families find peace knowing exactly what their loved ones wanted, and in being able to focus on what really matters – remembering a treasured life.
At Welham Jones, we’re here to guide you gently through each step, with honesty, patience, and care. If you’d like to talk about your options, we’re always ready to listen.
Most funeral directors do their best to offer kindness, clarity, and support at what can be one of the hardest times in your life. But occasionally, things do not go as they should, which can add extra heartache when you least need it. If something feels wrong or if you are left feeling confused, unheard or let down, it is okay to speak up.
A good first step is to put your concerns in writing and send them directly to the funeral director. Sometimes, a gentle conversation is all that is needed to clear up a misunderstanding. But if you’re still not happy with the response, there are kind and experienced organisations who can help guide you through the next steps:
When you’re grieving, the last thing you should worry about is whether you’re being treated fairly. So, it can bring some comfort knowing the Consumer Rights Act 2015 is there to protect you.
This law says that any service you pay for must be carried out with care, professionalism and at the price you were told. If something falls short, you have every right to ask for it to be put right whether that means a refund, an adjustment, or another form of support.
In more serious situations, businesses can be formally required to change their behaviour so that others aren’t affected in the same way. You are not alone, and you do not have to accept poor service at such an important moment.
At Welham Jones, we believe families deserve transparency, kindness and a steady hand at every step. From your first call to the day of the funeral and beyond, we’re here to offer not just a service, but genuine care.
As a local, independent, family-run funeral director, we know the importance of putting an empathetic, compassionate face to a name, and being able to build a rapport with your funeral director. This is why it is our pleasure to introduce Tonbridge locals to Rosanna Hayward, our passionate and committed funeral arranger, overseeing our Tonbridge operations.
As the cost-of-living crisis continues to rage on, there is sadly no better news when it comes to funeral costs. SunLife recently released their Cost of Dying Report 2025 and found that it is currently more expensive than ever to die. But what do these statistics really mean? Where is your – or your loved ones’ – money going? And what financing options are available to ease stress in an already emotional time?
As a funeral director serving communities across West Kent and South East London, I’ve witnessed firsthand how music can profoundly shape a farewell. Whether you’re arranging a funeral in Sevenoaks, considering a pre-paid funeral plan in Tonbridge, or simply exploring options in Chislehurst and Bromley, understanding the role of music can be invaluable.
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