There’s a good reason why talking about death is still taboo, and incredibly difficult.
If anything, at this time of year the taboo is even more real, the conversations even more difficult.
Yet as we focus on reconnecting with family, friends and loved ones, thinking about end-of-life arrangements may be more of a gift than you first thought.
According to research we recently commissioned, more than half of people In the UK believe that having a funeral plan in place alleviates stress and provides peace of mind for friends and family.
Funeral poverty is a harsh reality for many, with sudden losses leaving loved ones not only grieving but also facing significant financial burdens. Planning ahead makes a huge difference in those situations.
However, despite the reassurance a funeral plan can offer, some 37% of UK adults say that “starting an uncomfortable conversation that risks upsetting a loved one” is the biggest barrier to discussing funeral plans. Additionally, 19% admit they aren’t sure how to start the conversation at all.
View funeral planning as a responsibility, not a chore
Taking control of organising your funeral is not only a personal responsibility but a meaningful way to provide reassurance for everyone. Securing a funeral plan is something to take pride in, seeing it as an empowering act of agency over your final wishes.
Take some time to sit down with a cup of tea and consider your preferences for end-of-life arrangements. The next step might be to go online and explore various funeral plans to find one that aligns with your values and fits within your budget. If you prefer a more personal approach, many independent funeral directors are happy to arrange a meeting to guide you through the process and help you choose a plan that best suits your needs.
Many funeral plans offer flexible payment options designed to suit a range of budgets. With a pre-paid plan, the cost of the funeral director’s services is locked in at today’s prices, offering protection against rising costs
Picking the right moment
Nobody is suggesting that this is the perfect topic of conversation for the Christmas dinner table. Our goal is to help others overcome the taboo so they can take steps to think ahead and secure that all-important peace of mind, whenever that is.
Starting the conversation at a natural moment, such as after discussing a recent funeral or a related scene in a film, can make it feel less formal and more approachable.
Choosing a quiet, comfortable setting — perhaps at home or during a walk — gives everyone the freedom to speak openly. Focusing on practical aspects, can also make the topic easier to approach.
Whilst taking the first step might feel like a giant leap, one thing is almost certain. The peace of mind you’ll feel when you’ve done it will be very much worth it – a gift that really will keep on giving.
