Funerals

At Welham Jones, our funeral ‘first responders’ are at the heart of our care. We’re currently recruiting a new funeral first responder to join our trusted team, helping local families across West Kent and South East London at their time of need. But what does the job involve, and why is it so meaningful? We spoke to Jason Carr, a long-standing member of our team, to find out why this flexible and rewarding role is unlike any other.

How would you like your life to be commemorated? A recent survey suggests that, while some traditional funeral elements remain evergreen choices, some contemporary ideas are gaining definite ground among those thinking about their own funerals. 

With the average funeral in the UK now costing just under £5,000, it’s very common to have concerns about how you can ensure that your estate will be able to cover the costs of your funeral, or how to manage the costs if you have to arrange a funeral for a loved one. We guide you through the different options to ensure the costs of your funeral will be covered, as well as ways to create a fitting tribute to your loved one without breaking the bank.

While some of us don’t want to give any thought to our own funerals, others have a very clear idea of how we would like to be commemorated when our time comes. If you know what kind of funeral you would like, can you ensure that your wishes will be upheld? You may be surprised by the answer.

Most people underestimate the number of decisions involved in organising a funeral, so giving your loved ones some guidance beforehand can take pressure off what is already an emotional time. It can also help their wellbeing if they know that your final farewell was in line with your wishes and they have done you proud.  

By completing a Letter of Wishes form, you can convey your wishes about the funeral you want and – at the same time – save your family from having to make any difficult decisions during a time of grief. The letter of wishes form for funerals It is not legally binding but is a useful and confidential communication to your loved ones.

People’s mindsets and attitudes towards funerals and death have shifted, with many viewing funerals as an opportunity to celebrate life, rather than mourn it. The first key decision you must make is whether you want to be cremated or buried and where you might like your final resting place to be. These decisions are all flexible and should be discussed with your funeral director.

Welham Jones has made it through to the finals of the Family Business of the Year Awards. Shortlisted in the South East category, the family values that run through every aspect of our business have been key in helping us reach the finals.

When choosing a funeral director, does it really matter if you choose a firm that is family run and local? And how can you tell the difference? Expert advice from a three-generation funeral director serving West Kent and Southeast London

The amount of time it is taking between a person passing and their funeral has increased – and it’s due to a change in the death certification process. Expert advice from a local, family run funeral directors serving West Kent and Southeast Londonm