Down to Earth

In 2010, Quaker Social Action took a risk to set up a pioneering project.

We wanted to support people already struggling to make ends meet because the sudden cost of a funeral can place an unbearable strain on already stretched household finances.

Since then, we’ve helped over 9,500 people in all corners of the UK to plan meaningful and more affordable funerals.

Every year, thousands more people find Down to Earth because they’re worried about how they’ll pay for a funeral. We help people understand their options, find financial support where it’s available, and make informed decisions about the funeral that’s right for them.

In 2025-26, 11,778 people used our online guides and tools to find information and support, while our team provided one-to-one support to 987 people through our helpline.

• For people who were able to reduce funeral costs, we helped them save an average of £2,458 compared with their initial quotes for funeral arrangements.
• Where people were able to raise money following their bereavement, we helped them secure an average of £2,533.

The figures only tell part of the story. Many people come to us feeling overwhelmed by the cost of a funeral at a time when they are already grieving. By helping people understand their options and make a plan, we can reduce some of the worry and uncertainty around paying for a funeral.