Paying for the funeral
At William Purves we don’t wish to add any further worry or uncertainty at this time which is why once the funeral arrangements have been completed, we’ll issue you with a full written estimate in writing based on the funeral arrangements discussed. As we may have to pay for some items on your behalf, we ask for a deposit in advance to cover these items which we require to be settled within two working days. Where a solicitor has agreed to accept and settle the invoice, or a pre-payment plan is in place, the need for a deposit is waived. Invoices are issued after the funeral and payment is due within 30 days. A full range of payment options are available, and you can also pay here on our website.
Help with the cost
If you have any worries about the financial arrangements, please talk to your funeral director.
Help with the cost of a simple funeral may be available to those receiving benefits. Advice on what help is available can be found at mygov.scot. There are also private trusts that make contributions to funeral costs.
If you would like to talk to someone about funeral payments, it's best to talk to someone at an advice centre like the Citizens Advice Bureau. They will advise you on the amount of financial help you can expect based on your circumstances.
Arrange a Funeral FAQs
Is there a cost difference between a burial and cremation?
The choice varies depending on which part of the country you live in. Urban areas have good access to crematoria but burial ground spaces are increasingly limited. Conversely, rural areas have plenty ground but are further away from crematoria. The costs vary between the regions so call us to find out what the options are for your area of choice.
With family in many countries, can we arrange a small private funeral now and have a larger celebration of life on a different date - and can you help with both arrangements?
We can assist with all elements of event planning for a funeral including celebrations after - whether they are on the same day or at later date. Whether you want a simple tribute or an extravagant memorial event, we're here to help you and your loved ones.
Are we limited to the number of cars?
You can have as many cars as you like. Our fleet of limousines can be fitted with screens to comply with any social distancing restrictions set by the Government which will continually evolve. We can arrange as many cars, and even arrange alternative transport from luxury coaches to more individual alternatives should you require it.
I am worried about thanking everyone who attends...
We can help. As there are limits on who can attend a funeral, we offer online obituaries where people can leave online tributes and messages of condolence. You can provide details about the funeral before or add messages of thanks after and then link from your own social media. In the future, when larger numbers are once again allowed, we can provide attendance cards for mourners to sign or leave a message of condolence. We collate them for you after the funeral so you can focus on saying goodbye.
How long should we keep the ashes?
There's no right or wrong answer. Retaining ashes is a very personal thing. Some people want to scatter them at a later date, others can't bear to part with them. We can help by providing practical storage advice and guiding you to make the decision that is most fitting for you and your family.
Can we take the flowers home after the funeral?
You can keep or leave, all or part, of any tribute just as you please. Often a memento is taken by family members or sometimes sprays can be left at the graveside. There is no "rule".
