Introduction
If someone dies in Somerset and has no family or funeral plan, we will arrange and pay for the funeral.
We will also arrange a funeral if a family refuses to do so. In this case, the family cannot choose the funeral details.
These are called public health funerals.
Funeral arrangements
If no one can arrange the funeral, we will:
- register the death
- instruct a funeral director
- provide a coffin
- arrange transport for a direct cremation
Friends or family can ask for the ashes to make their own arrangements. If no one asks, we will arrange their permanent resting place.
How we pay for the funeral
We recover costs from the person’s estate where possible. If there is not enough money, the public pays for the funeral.
How we recover the cost
To help cover costs, we may remove items such as jewellery from the home. We sell these items six months after the funeral.
If family members have taken items, we will ask for them to be returned.
Funding may also be available from charities or the Department of Works and Pension Social Fund. We encourage families to explore these options first. Referral to the council should be a last resort.
Property and personal effects
We secure the property and pass keys and belongings to the police or housing provider.
The estate or property owner usually pays to clear furniture and other items. Do not remove items unless you have legal authority.
If more than £500 remains after funeral costs, we inform the Treasury Solicitor.
Freedom of information requests
You can find information about Public Health Funerals on our Public Health funerals open data page.
You can also find details of Public Health Funeral’s carried out by the Council on our Public Registers page.