Useful Information

Clear Funeral Information and Guidance for Families

At Morgans Funeral Directors, we know that arranging a funeral can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with paperwork and legal requirements. That is why we provide clear information and guidance to help families across Bexleyheath, Plumstead, Welling, Erith, Crayford, Bexley, Thamesmead and Belvedere. Our family-run team is here to support you through every step, ensuring nothing is left unclear or confusing.

How to Register a Death

In England and Wales, a death must be registered within five days by the Registrar of Births and Deaths in the district where the death occurred. If you are unsure whether you have the authority to register the death, our funeral directors will guide you.

When visiting the registrar, you should take:

  • The medical certificate of the cause of death.
  • The deceased’s NHS medical card.
  • The deceased’s birth certificate and marriage certificate.

The registrar will also require the following details: full name, home address, date and place of death, date and place of birth, last occupation, date of birth of any surviving partner, pension or allowance information, and for married women, maiden name and husband’s details.

After registration, the registrar will provide:

  • A green certificate (to give to the funeral director).
  • A white certificate (for social security purposes).
  • Copies of the death certificate (available to purchase), which may be needed for wills, pensions, insurance, savings, or bonds.

Frequently Asked Questions

On the day, our funeral director will guide you, your family and your guests. If you are unsure of anything, simply ask and we will assist.

Yes, families may carry the coffin, but we ask to be notified in advance to ensure safety and support.

Yes, you are welcome to visit our private chapel of rest. Please call to arrange a time and a member of staff will be there to assist.

Yes, we can arrange for your loved one to be brought home either the evening before or the morning of the funeral.

Yes. By law, you may bring a donations box. However, any donations collected must be handed directly to the next of kin (NOK) immediately after the service.

No, strict laws apply to cremations, and nothing may be removed from the coffin without Home Office permission.

Yes, every cremation is carried out individually. Crematorium staff check identity plates to ensure correct identification.

Yes, after cremation, the ashes are placed in a clearly labelled urn to ensure they are correctly returned.

Families have several options, including:

  • Placing ashes in a garden of remembrance (though no headstone will be possible).
  • Purchasing a new grave specifically for interment of ashes, allowing a headstone and future family burials.
  • Keeping ashes at home in a special urn or memorial.
  • Scattering ashes at home or in a meaningful place.
  • Burying ashes in an existing family grave.

Here to Support You

Our role as independent funeral directors is not only to arrange funerals but to provide advice, guidance and useful information at every stage. Whether you need help registering a death, choosing between burial or cremation, or understanding paperwork, we are here 24 hours a day to support you and your family.

Contact Morgans Funeral Directors on 0208 304 5524 for advice or further information.