A Practical Checklist for Planning a Natural Burial

Planning a funeral can feel overwhelming, especially in the first few days after someone dies. This practical checklist is designed to help guide you through the steps involved in arranging a natural burial.

Every situation is different, and not every step will apply to you. Please treat this as a gentle guide rather than a rigid process, and remember that we are always here to help if you are unsure about anything.

Download Printable Checklist

In the First 24 to 48 Hours

• If the death was expected, contact the person’s GP to arrange verification of death.
• If the death was unexpected, the coroner may become involved. Hospital or emergency services staff will guide you through this.
• Check whether the person left a will, as it may contain funeral wishes or instructions.
• If a will exists, let the named executors know as soon as possible.
• Check whether the person had a pre-paid funeral plan. If so, contact the plan provider as early as possible.
• Allow yourself time before making any major decisions if you can.
• If a hospital or care home asks you to nominate a funeral director immediately, it is fine to ask for more time.
• Let close family and friends know.
• If you have a trusted friend or family member who can help coordinate things, ask them to do so.

In the First Few Days

• Register the death at the local Register Office, within five days in England and Wales, and within eight days in Scotland.
• Obtain the Certificate for Burial or Cremation, also known as the green form.
• Order several certified copies of the death certificate.
• Use the government’s Tell Us Once service to notify relevant government departments.
• Notify banks, building societies, insurers, employers, pension providers, and utility companies.
• Place an obituary or death notice if the family would like one.
• Decide whether you will use a funeral director or arrange the funeral yourselves.
• If using a funeral director, speak with more than one before deciding, and look for someone with experience of natural burial.
• Contact us to discuss plot options, availability, and costs at your chosen burial ground.
• Request an information pack from us if you would find this helpful.

Arranging the Plot

• Complete a plot application form, or ask your funeral director to do this on your behalf.
• Confirm payment arrangements, either in full or by deposit and monthly payments.
• Complete an interment form so we can prepare the grave in time for the funeral.
• Provide us with the exact external dimensions of the coffin or shroud as early as possible.
• Confirm the date and time of the burial with us.
• Ask us about memorial options, including plaques and, at some sites, memorial trees.

Planning the Ceremony

• Decide where the ceremony will take place, at the burial ground, at a place of worship, or both.
• Decide whether you would like a celebrant, minister, or family member to lead the service.
• Plan any readings, music, or tributes.
• If you are playing recorded music, prepare a playlist in advance and nominate someone to manage it on the day.
• Think about whether you would like to involve children, and how.
• Consider whether any guests will need fold-out chairs, particularly elderly or less mobile guests.
• Check whether toilet facilities are available at your chosen site and make arrangements if needed.
• Let guests know what to expect, including uneven ground, outdoor conditions, and appropriate footwear.
• If you are planning a wake or gathering after the burial, book a venue and arrange catering.
• Send invitations or let people know the date, time, and location once arrangements are confirmed.

The Coffin or Shroud

• Choose a coffin or shroud made from natural, biodegradable materials.
• Wood, wicker, cardboard, and natural fabric shrouds are all suitable.
• Check with us before purchasing to confirm the materials meet our requirements.
• Ensure clothing is made from natural fabrics such as cotton, wool, linen, or silk.
• Confirm that no embalming has taken place, except in exceptional circumstances such as repatriation.

Flowers and Personal Touches

• If bringing flowers to place in the grave, ensure they are free from plastic wrapping and floral foam.
• Consider whether you would like to decorate the coffin with drawings, messages, or flowers.
• Think about any meaningful objects, photographs, or mementos you would like to bring to the graveside.

Practical Arrangements

• Arrange transport for the coffin if you are not using a funeral director.
• Delegate practical tasks to friends or family where possible, such as managing music, welcoming guests, or coordinating readings.
• If the weather is likely to be cold or wet, consider arranging a nearby indoor venue before or after the burial.

Financial Support

You may be eligible for financial support depending on your circumstances.

• If the person who has died was a child under 18, check the relevant government support schemes.
• If you are on qualifying benefits, check whether you may be eligible for a Funeral Expenses Payment in England and Wales, or a Funeral Support Payment in Scotland.
• If the loss occurred before 24 weeks of pregnancy, contact the Child Funeral Charity, who may be able to help with costs.

After the Funeral

• Save the GPS coordinates and what3words address we provide for the grave.
• Download the free what3words app so you can navigate directly to the grave when you visit.
• Consider whether you would like a memorial plaque or, at some sites, a memorial tree.
• Think about the digital legacy of the person who has died, including social media accounts, email, and online subscriptions.
• Begin to consider probate and the administration of the estate if required.
• Remember that you are welcome to visit the burial ground at any time of year.