Republic of Ireland

 

When the time comes to begin funeral preparations. There are choices of providers that are available to help, both undertakers or funeral directors have the professional expertise to guide you. Immediate family members, next-of-kin, or executors of the will/estate will be the ones to initiate this process.

Considering the nature of such events, it is always best to honour the wishes of the deceased if they have provided a last will and testament.

When seeking out funeral service providers, consider ones that are reputable, such as the Irish Association of Funeral Directors. They provide a standardised service while abiding by a strong ethics code. Currently there are 260 full member firms available in Ireland.

The IAFD ensures full members follow the Code of Practice.

There are overarching ideals of the association. Acting in the best interest of the client with emphasis on professionalism, integrity, and accountability. Charging fair rates for services and merchandise. Ensuring all privileged and confidential information are handled with care.

Funerals can be costly, but working with a reputable provider can help. Information that your funeral director might provide will include detail cost breakdowns, e.g. Coffins, Headstones, Hearse Services, Floral Tributes. The estimate of cost should be offered during the funeral arrangement process, if not shortly after.

All funeral service providers are to follow all governmental laws and regulations for funeral services, public health, and general business.

Hiring the funeral director will require a signing agreement. This ensures a contract is formed, with expected services from payment. In all likelihood, this avoids surprise charges.

Below is a list of possible services a funeral director might provide:
Burials
Cremations
Embalmings
Care of the Deceased
Church and Cemetery Arrangements
Death Notices
Floral Tributes
Repatriation
Headstones and Monument

 

Northern Ireland

 

When the time comes to begin funeral preparations. There are choices of providers that are available to help, both undertakers or funeral directors have the professional expertise to guide you. Immediate family members, next-of-kin, or executors of the will/estate will be the ones to initiate this process.

Considering the nature of such events, it is always best to honour the wishes of the deceased if they have provided a last will and testament.

When seeking out funeral service providers, consider ones that are reputable. There are currently two trade association handling funeral services:

The National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD)
“The National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) is the largest and most inclusive representative body for the UK funeral profession. We support our members to deliver high standards of care for those who have died and we offer bereaved people the information and assurance to help them choose a compassionate, professional and experienced funeral director that they can trust.”

Society of Allied Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF)
“This is where the compassion, professionalism and community commitment of a SAIF independent funeral director can help to make this most difficult of times that little bit more bearable. Independent funeral directors are known for their high standard of service and a caring, traditional approach, 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year.”

The NAFD follows The Funeral Director Code. The SAIF follows the Code of Practice. Both are standardised rules that members abide by, to provide consistent and professional services.
Regardless of which association you choose, members must provide an estimate of cost for their services before starting.

Additional ethics rules vary, but overall the sentiment is the same. Ensure respect and strict care for the deceased and client. Handle privileged and confidential information with care. Provide transparent and fair pricing, agreements, and associated product/services. Uphold high standards of professional knowledge, certified facilities, and respect for equality.

All funeral service providers are to follow all governmental laws and regulations for funeral services, public health, and general business.
Below is a list of possible services a funeral director might provide:
Burials
Cremations
Embalmings
Care of the Deceased
Church and Cemetery Arrangements
Death Notices
Floral Tributes
Repatriation
Headstones and Monument