Funeral services
The council’s role in the undertaking of funerals
The council has a statutory duty under the provisions of Section 46 of the Public Health (Control of Disease) Act 1984 to undertake the disposal of deceased persons who die in the borough where no other arrangements have been made (either by cremation or burial).
A cremation will be arranged by the council, unless:
- it is established that the religion of the deceased forbids cremation
- the deceased expressed a wish, either verbally or written, to be buried.
A minister of religion or a religious representative of the faith of the deceased will normally be present to conduct the service in accordance with that faith. If a non-religious service is appropriate, then this will be respected.
The appointed funeral director is contracted by the council to provide a dignified funeral with a coffin taken to the crematorium or cemetery in a hearse attended by bearers. The council will provide a small bunch of flowers for placing on the coffin.
Important factors affecting Hackney Council’s involvement with funerals
Hackney Council’s involvement in funerals will differ depending on certain important factors. Follow the links below for more information on Hackney Council’s involvement in funerals when:
- the death takes place in a hospital
- the death takes place in care or in a nursing home
- relatives are supported by benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions
- relatives are not able to organise a funeral
- the deceased made a will
Where the council cannot become involved
The council cannot become involved if funeral arrangements have already been made, or the funeral has taken place. In this instance, anyone who has given instructions to a funeral director will be responsible for any costs incurred.
If there are any financial limitations, then it is sensible to inform the funeral director at an early stage.
Find out more
If you need any more information about Hackney Council’s role in undertaking funerals, please contact Bereavement and Property Protection Services using the details at the top-right corner of this page.
You may also wish to read about the Department for Work and Pension's funeral support for those on low incomes.
Page updated: 15 Jun 2010
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