There are a variety of costs associated with organising a funeral and it can be a daunting prospect. 

Getting help with funeral costs

Depending on your circumstances (not those of the person who has died), you may be eligible for a one off Funeral Expenses Payment to help towards the cost of a funeral. You can apply for a payment by post or by phone by visiting the GOV.UK website.  

You may also be eligible for financial help under the Co-op Funeralcare Hardship Fund.

In addition, the Department of Works and Pensions (DWP) have a basic guide on benefits and tax credits available to those who have been widowed.

Taking time off work

You are entitled to take a reasonable amount of time off work to deal with certain unexpected or sudden emergencies and to make any necessary arrangements including arranging or attending a dependant's funeral.

HM Armed Forces

If the deceased died as a result of service in HM armed forces, you may be entitled to a War widow/widowers pension. The Veterans Agency is the single point of contact within the Ministry of Defence for providing information, help and advice on issues of concern to veterans and their families.