The impact of funeral costs on bereaved people
Worrying about how to pay for a funeral can add significant distress at an already difficult time, affecting people’s mental health, finances and ability to grieve.
In the UK, a simple attended funeral costs an average of £3,828, according to SunLife. While some people plan and save for their funeral, many bereaved people need to find ways to cover the costs themselves. For someone on a low income or with little or no savings, this unexpected expense can create a financial crisis.
SunLife research found that 15% of people arranging a funeral experience notable financial difficulty. Some people borrow money to cover the costs, and some turn to illegal money lenders (loan sharks), which can create further financial harm.
Government support, where people are eligible, often does not cover the full cost of a funeral, leaving many people with a shortfall to find.
Down to Earth campaigns for better support for bereaved people experiencing funeral poverty. Find out more about our campaigns and research.
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