Funeral Arrangements
When you are ready to make the funeral arrangements we recommend that you visit one of our six locally situated offices to do so. It is not necessary to make an appointment, however we do suggest that you call the office before setting out, to ensure that we are available on your arrival. If it is not possible to visit an office, or you would prefer to make the arrangements at home, please call any of our offices and we can arrange a time that best suits you. When making the funeral arrangements one of our consultants will guide you gently through the necessary questions, however if there is something or an element you would like more time to discuss, we will call you at a convenient time to finalise the details.
Religious Ceremonies
Religion plays an important part in many funerals. We have the knowledge and experience with all religions to conform to their various and different procedures. We will always endeavour to obtain the Minister of your choice to officiate at the funeral. You are not required to use your local parish clergy. If you have an alternative, however, we do as a matter of courtesy, contact the local minister in the parish where the deceased lived simply to inform them of the death. It is essential that your wishes are made known to us, we are always willing to adapt to variations or customs and traditions.
Deaths Reported to the Coroner
There are many reasons why a death is reported to the Coroner and in a majority of cases it is a simple time factor, either since the last doctor's visit or admission to Hospital. Whatever the circumstances, dealings with the Coroner's office will take place. This should not delay the funeral more then a day or so and preliminary arrangements can be made with us prior to finalising dates and times. As with anything connected with the funeral, if you have any concerns at all, we are here to answer any questions and alleviate any worries you may have.
Funerals in Other Towns or Overseas
We are often asked to arrange funerals in other parts of this country or to repatriate someone home to their native land. We have the facilities to carry out your wishes. We are conversant with Consular regulations throughout the world, and through our professional association we can plan the funeral so that the family have nothing to worry about. This is also true in cases where death has occurred abroad, or in other towns, and a family wish for the deceased to be returned here for the funeral. It is always best to contact us as soon as possible so that we may advise and assist in the early stages.
Non-Religious Funerals and Civil Ceremonies
We are often asked to arrange funerals without religious content and there are a variety of options available. We have details of both civil celebrants and humanist officiants and will be happy to find someone who meets the criteria you are looking for. Alternatively, you may wish for a family member or close friend to recall memories of happier times. We are pleased to offer help and advice in any form should it be required.
The Cost & Payment of Account
One of the main fears people face when having to make funeral arrangements is "How much is it going to cost?" and "How can we afford it?" This can weigh heavy on someone's mind, especially in cases where the death is sudden or unexpected, or that of a younger person when provision for funeral expenses have not yet been made. As with every part of the Funeral we are here to help. It is not in our interest to offer, sell or provide anything which may be beyond anyone's financial limits. We will advise you throughout the proceedings of all the relevant costs. We will assist in fulfilling your wishes in line with the funds available. Our own policy is not to ask for payment of our charges until the arrangements have come to a satisfactory conclusion, although you will have to produce sufficient funds to cover all disbursements prior to the funeral. This payment conforms to National Policy and procedure. Many of our clients knowing of our reputation are happy to take advantage of our pre-payment discount. Details on request. In all cases we can only help if your wishes are known to us.
The First Steps (When Death Occurs)
Whether death occurs at home or in hospital, arrangements for the funeral will have to be made. Our staff are all trained to assist and advise you at each step of the way, our aim is to make this daunting task as easy as possible. We will explain everything as the arrangements progress as well as answer any questions you may have. This is done at one of our six offices that are strategically positioned around Watford so as to be convenient to everyone. If however, you would prefer that the arrangements be made at your home this can be arranged.
Whatever you decide, it is always best to telephone first so that we can advise you of the things to do and also answer any immediate questions you may have. Our telephones are answered by our staff 24 hours a day and our contact number is 01923 247427.
M. K. Ginder & Sons are proud and privileged to have cared for the families of Watford and the surrounding areas with Dignity and Respect since 1983, as The Local, Independent, Family-Run Funeral Directors.
