Making that first call to a funeral director can feel daunting. For many people, it happens at a time of shock, sadness or uncertainty.
You may not know what to say. Equally, you may not know what happens next.
The good news is that you do not need to have everything worked out before you call.
At Varty’s Funeral Directors, we guide families through the process step by step. Our role is to make things feel calmer, clearer and more manageable from the very beginning.
The first conversation
When you call us, we will start by taking a few basic details.
This may include the name of the person who has died, where they are currently resting, and your contact details.
At this stage, you do not need to worry about having all the answers. We will simply talk you through the immediate next steps and explain what needs to happen first.
What happens next depends on where the person has died
The next stage will depend on whether the person has died at home, in hospital, in a care home or in unexpected circumstances.
If the death happens at home, a doctor or nurse will need to confirm the death before any further arrangements can be made.
If the death happens in hospital or a care home, staff there will usually begin the necessary process and advise on what happens next.
If the death is sudden or unexpected, the coroner may become involved.
If that happens, we will explain the process clearly and support you through any extra steps.
Bringing your loved one into our care
Once the necessary checks have been completed, we can arrange to bring your loved one into our care.
This is often one of the biggest concerns for families when they first call.
Therefore, we always explain it with care and sensitivity, so you know what is happening and when.
Guidance on paperwork and registration
After that, we will explain what needs to happen in terms of paperwork.
This usually includes registering the death once the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death has been issued.
In England and Wales, a death should normally be registered within five days, although this can vary if the coroner is involved.
We will guide you through that process and make sure you understand what documents you need and what to expect.
Beginning the funeral arrangements
Once the practical steps are underway, we will arrange a time to sit down with you and talk through the funeral itself.
Some families already know what they want. Others need time and guidance to explore the options. Both are completely normal.
We will help you think through the type of service, burial or cremation, transport, music, readings and any personal touches you may wish to include.
Support from the very beginning
One of the most important things to know is this: the first call is not about making every decision straight away.
It is about getting the right support at the right time.
As experienced funeral directors in Wigan, we are here to listen, explain and guide.
From that first conversation onwards, we want to make sure you feel supported, informed and never alone in the process.
Need advice or support?
If you would like advice or support, the team at Varty’s Funeral Directors is here for you.
You are welcome to visit Darlville Funeral Parlour, Manchester Road, Ince-in-Makerfield, Wigan, WN2 2EA during office hours, Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 6pm.
Alternatively, you can call 01942 244712 at any time, email kristen@vartys.co.uk, or complete the contact form on our website.
