“The plan has not only provided clarity and peace of mind to my sister-in-law, but to us all as a family knowing everything is taken care of”

While many of our customers get in touch to take out a pre-paid funeral plan for themselves, we’re often contacted by those looking to set up a plan on behalf of a family member or close friend.

Kathleen Summerland from Buckinghamshire, who was the organiser of her mother’s funeral following a sudden passing, has used her experience to encourage her family to plan ahead. The 73-year-old said: “When my mother passed away suddenly, I was the one who had to navigate funeral arrangements, with no idea on what her final wishes were. I didn’t want to let her down or disrespect her wishes, but I simply didn’t know what they were.

“At that time, it was all very ‘hush hush’ and wasn’t perceived as proper to discuss anything related to death. But the combination of grief and uncertainty that I experienced in that two weeks really made me realise how important it is not only to plan for your funeral, but to communicate your wishes openly too.”

Kathleen, who is retired and lives with her husband, has now taken out a pre-paid funeral plan for a close family member, to ensure her wishes are met.

“My sister-in-law, who is in a care home, had been quite anxious about her future arrangements. I wanted to help her and ease her concerns, so I did some research into pre-paid funeral plan providers and after talking it through with her decided I would reach out to them on her behalf as she doesn’t keep well.”

Kathleen recalls the experience: “With Golden Charter, I was put at ease straight away. The process was practical and straightforward, and the funeral plan was tailored specifically to what my sister-in-law told me she wanted.

“It was an open and honest conversation, with every detail explained thoroughly. There were even a few laughs along the way and that added touch of humour to an otherwise serious conversation which really helped put us at ease.”

With the plan now in place and knowing that her sister-in-law’s wishes will be met and the cost of the funeral director services taken care of, Kathleen is confident that her family will be spared of any stress and last-minute decision making at a difficult time.

“Overall, I found the experience of purchasing a pre-paid funeral plan very reassuring. I really appreciated how a very sensitive topic was approached with care. The plan has not only provided clarity and peace of mind to my sister-in-law, but to us all as a family knowing everything is taken care of.”

Kathleen has since shared her positive experience with friends and neighbours, emphasising how having a funeral plan in place brought her and her family comfort and has eliminated any fear and uncertainty for them.