Help & Advice
Navigating the loss of a loved one is profoundly difficult. At Distinct Funerals, we're committed to offering solace and support through these hard times.
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Our experienced team provides insightful advice on all aspects of funeral planning and helps simplify the complexities involved in making arrangements.
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We recognize the immense challenge of juggling these duties amidst grief. Rest assured, we're here to handle everything, ensuring your loved one's final wishes are respected and fulfilled with care.
You will find advice about the following below
Someone has just passed away
Grieving the loss of a loved one can be a trying time, and it's important to allow yourself time to process your feelings.
Reach out to someone you trust for support and to let them know of the situation.
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If the passing occurs in a hospital or nursing home, the staff will contact the deceased's doctor. However, if it occurs elsewhere, you will need to make this call yourself.
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After the doctor has been notified, it's time to arrange the transfer of the deceased to a funeral home.
Distinct Funerals is available to handle everything for you. Contact us at 03 218 9468.
Who to notify
The first step is to inform family and friends of the deceased.
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Having a designated family member or trusted friend to serve as the main point of contact for everyone can make the process easier.
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Next of kin and family members.
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Solicitor or Executor of the will.
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Funeral Home.
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At Home
In the event that your loved one passes away at home, it's crucial to inform a doctor or certified nurse practitioner promptly so they can issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death.
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If the deceased was receiving professional care at home from a nurse or registered palliative caregiver, they will handle the necessary paperwork and coordinate with the doctor.
In a care institution
In the case of a passing at a hospital, rest home, or hospice, the next of kin will be informed by the staff.
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The staff will handle the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death and, if applicable, the Application for Cremation form. It is advisable to notify your funeral home as soon as you are informed of the death.
Unexpectedly
In the case of an unconfirmed, sudden, or accidental death, the police must be notified immediately. They will then arrange for the deceased to be transferred to the coroner's mortuary.
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Once the examination by the coroner is complete, they will inform Distinct Funerals, who will then take your loved one into their care.
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Distinct Funerals will handle the communication with the coroner on your behalf and assist with planning the funeral service.
Who is responsible for a funeral?
Typically, a funeral is arranged by the Executor named in the will, family members, or friends in conjunction with a funeral director.
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Although not required, many individuals find it helpful to work with a funeral director to alleviate the pressure of the numerous decisions that need to be made during this emotional time.
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Funeral directors are experienced professionals who offer support and guidance to families from the moment of passing until long after the funeral services are finished.
What is an Executor?
An Executor is an individual named in a will or appointed by a court to handle the financial affairs of a deceased person.
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Upon a person's passing, it is crucial that the Executor is promptly notified. It is recommended that the Executor seek professional guidance to understand their rights and responsibilities in the situation.
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The Executor is responsible for managing the deceased's property, paying any debts and taxes, and ensuring that assets are transferred to their rightful owners. If probate court proceedings are necessary, the Executor must handle them or hire a lawyer to do so.
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If a will cannot be found, the role of the Executor typically falls on the next-of-kin, who should seek professional assistance before attempting to settle the matter.
Financing a funeral
Who is responsible for paying for a funeral?
To cover funeral expenses, it's important to determine where the funds will come from. In some cases, the deceased's estate or bank account may cover the costs.
Additionally, benefits from life insurance, ACC or Veterans Affairs, pre-paid funeral plans, health funds, superannuation, or workers compensation may also contribute.
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At Distinct Funerals, we understand that funeral expenses can be unexpected and may pose a financial burden.
That's why we encourage families to discuss their financial situation with us during the planning process, so we can tailor the funeral to their preferences without causing undue stress.
Planning
The first step in planning a funeral is to reach out to a funeral home. They will guide you through the process and help you make all the necessary decisions, ensuring that the wishes of your loved one are honored.
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The cost of a funeral will vary based on your preferences and decisions, including:
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Choice of burial or cremationz
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Type and extent of funeral services
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Type of coffin or casket
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Cost of a burial plot or cremation expenses
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Fees for services provided by other professionals such as opening and closing of the grave, newspaper notices, clergy, florists, etc.
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At Distinct Funerals, we are committed to working with families to provide services that meet your needs and reflect the desires of your loved one.
The funeral service
On the day of the funeral, the Distinct Funerals team will provide support and guidance throughout the entire service.
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Our experienced funeral directors will handle all the details so that you can fully participate in honoring and remembering your loved one.
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With our gentle and compassionate presence, we will create a peaceful atmosphere that allows you to focus on the memorial service and spending time with your family and guests.
Beyond the funeral process
At Distinct Funerals, we understand that grieving doesn't stop once the funeral service ends.
That's why we offer continued support and resources to help you through the healing process.
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Our team can assist you with planning a memorial after the funeral service, or help you decide on the best options for memorializing the ashes in the case of a cremation service.
Whether you need information, guidance or just someone to talk to, we are here for you.