When a loved one passes away, one of the first practical worries many families face is cost. It’s a difficult topic to talk about, especially during an emotional time, but understanding what affects funeral costs and how to manage them can make everything feel a little less overwhelming.
At Franklin & Hawkins Family Funeral Directors in Solihull, we believe every family deserves a respectful and dignified service, whatever their budget. Here’s how to plan a meaningful funeral while keeping costs clear, manageable, and fair.
Understanding what goes into funeral costs
Funeral expenses can vary depending on the type of service you choose, where it takes place, and the level of personalisation involved.
In simple terms, most funerals include:
- Funeral director fees (professional services, care of the deceased, vehicles, administration, etc.)
- Third-party or “disbursement” costs (crematorium or burial fees, celebrant or minister fees)
- Optional extras (flowers, orders of service, music, or memorials)
At Franklin & Hawkins, we believe in transparency, you’ll always receive a clear breakdown of costs before making any decisions. You can read more about what’s involved in our Common Questions About Arranging a Funeral blog.
Talk openly about budget early on
It might feel uncomfortable to discuss costs upfront when arranging a funeral, but it can save a lot of stress later. Once we know what matters most to your family, we can tailor our guidance to fit your budget.
For example, you might prefer to focus spending on a beautiful floral tribute and keep the service itself simple, or perhaps you’d rather have a small private funeral and a larger celebration of life afterwards. There’s no one “right” approach, and open conversations help ensure every choice feels intentional.
Choose between burial and cremation
Cremation is generally more affordable than burial, especially when you factor in cemetery plot and maintenance costs. Direct cremation, in particular, can significantly reduce expenses while still allowing for a later memorial or service.
If you’re unsure which option feels right for your family, we can talk you through the differences and what’s included in each. We do find that families in the West Midlands now choose direct cremation because it offers both simplicity and flexibility.
Keep extras personal but simple
Personal touches don’t have to be expensive. Families often find that the most meaningful details are favourite songs, shared readings, or photo placed at the front of the chapel.
If you’d like printed orders of service or flowers, we can help you select options that are both beautiful and budget-friendly. Sometimes, doing small things yourself, like writing a few words to be read, can make the day feel even more personal.
Ask about fixed-price or tailored packages
At Franklin & Hawkins, we offer clear, tailored pricing to suit different needs. Whether you’d like a traditional service or a direct cremation we’ll explain exactly what’s included, with no hidden extras.
Some families choose our Acorn package to keep costs lower; others prefer to build their own arrangement with our help. Whatever you decide, you’ll always know where you stand financially.
Check for support or pre-paid plans
If the person who passed away had a funeral plan or life insurance, that may cover part or all of the costs. There may also be financial assistance available through government schemes such as the Funeral Expenses Payment (if you receive certain benefits).
Even small contributions can make a meaningful difference.
Respectful, affordable funerals in Solihull
Whatever your circumstances, our priority is ensuring that every family feels supported, informed, and in control of their choices. A well-planned funeral doesn’t have to be elaborate or costly, what matters most is that it reflects your loved one and provides comfort to those attending.
If you’d like to discuss options, please contact us, we’re here to help you find a way forward that feels right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a funeral cost in Solihull?
Funeral costs can vary quite a bit depending on the choices a family makes. A traditional service with limousines, flowers and stationary, will naturally be more expensive than a simple or direct cremation.
In Solihull and across the West Midlands, most full funeral services range between £3,000 and £5,000, though it can be less for simpler arrangements. At Franklin & Hawkins, we’re fully transparent about every cost involved, from crematorium or burial fees or optional extras like printed service sheets or flowers.
When you contact us, we’ll provide a clear, itemised estimate before you commit to anything. Many families tell us that just having a breakdown of costs in front of them makes things feel more manageable, because they can see exactly where their money is going and what can be adapted to suit their circumstances.
What’s the most affordable type of funeral, and does it still feel respectful?
A direct cremation is generally the most affordable type of funeral. It’s a simple, unattended cremation that takes place without a formal service at the crematorium. Some families worry that “unattended” sounds impersonal, but that isn’t the case at all.
At Franklin & Hawkins, every direct cremation is carried out with complete dignity. Your loved one remains in our care from start to finish, and you’ll still have the ashes returned afterwards. Many families then choose to hold a small memorial, scatter ashes, or plan a celebration of life in their own time.
Our Direct Cremation is £1500 and can be purchased at the time of need or as a funeral plan if you would like to plan for the future.
Can we still make a simple funeral feel meaningful?
Absolutely, simplicity doesn’t mean doing less; it means focusing on what truly matters.
Adding meaning doesn’t have to cost anything. You might include your loved one’s favourite music, a reading written by a family member, or display cherished photographs and personal items. Even small touches, such as a special flower from their garden can bring warmth and authenticity to the day.
We can help you find those meaningful details that reflect your loved one’s life and personality, whether the service is held at the crematorium, a church or at graveside.
Do you offer fixed or transparent pricing?
Yes, transparency is at the heart of what we do. When you contact Franklin & Hawkins, we’ll talk you through every option clearly so there are no surprises later. Our quotes include all known third-party fees (such as crematorium costings and celebrant fees) and we’ll explain which elements are optional.
We also offer tailored packages to suit different budgets. For example, some families choose a fixed-price direct cremation, while others build a more traditional service. Whatever you decide, you’ll always have a clear understanding of what’s included and why.
Is financial help available for funeral costs?
Yes, there are several types of support that might help reduce funeral expenses. The main one is the Funeral Expenses Payment, offered by the UK government to people on certain benefits (such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit).
We understand how difficult it can feel to talk about money at a time like this, but you’re never alone in figuring it out.
Can I pre-plan or pre-pay for a funeral to help my family later on?
Yes, and it’s one of the kindest things you can do for your family. A pre-paid funeral plan allows you to arrange and pay for your funeral in advance, locking in our current funeral directors fees and ensuring your wishes are followed exactly.
It removes uncertainty for your loved ones, both emotionally and financially, and it means they won’t have to make difficult decisions under pressure. And if you don’t want to take out a funeral plan, but you would like your wishes known for your family, we can help you record your preferences in writing so your wishes are clear.
Our team can explain the different plan options, what’s covered, and how payments work, all in plain language with no obligation.
What if I need to keep costs low but still want the day to feel special?
That’s something we hear from many families, and it’s entirely possible. A funeral doesn’t have to be lavish to be beautiful. What people remember most is the feeling in the room, not the flowers or the number of cars.
We can help you plan a small, personal farewell that focuses on connection and remembrance rather than expense. Our role is to help you find the balance, something financially comfortable but emotionally meaningful.
Can I get advice on reducing costs before making any decisions?
Yes, of course. You don’t have to have everything decided before reaching out to us. We’re happy to talk through your options, explain what influences cost, and help you prioritise the things that matter most to you. Sometimes small adjustments can make a real difference to the total cost.
We’ll never pressure you to spend more than you need to. Our goal is always to help you make thoughtful choices that feel right for your family.
Franklin & Hawkins Funeral Directors
Every family deserves clarity, dignity, and respect, whatever the budget. At Franklin & Hawkins, we’re here to make sure you never have to navigate the financial side of funeral planning alone.
If you’re beginning to arrange a funeral or simply want honest, practical advice, get in touch with our team today. We’re always here to listen and help you find a way that feels right for you and your family.
