Financial Advice

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Guidance Through Costs — With Care and Clarity

At Arlington Funeral Services, we understand that financial matters can feel overwhelming during a time of loss. Whether you are arranging a funeral or managing practical affairs afterwards, we are here to support you with clarity, compassion and reassurance.

Below is a practical overview of the financial assistance that may be available — through government support, local services and trusted charities. If you are unsure where to start, please speak to us first. We are here to help, gently and confidentially.

Supporting-Families

1. Bereavement Support Payment

A government benefit for those who have lost a spouse or civil partner.

What it provides:

  • A one-off lump sum
  • Monthly payments for up to 18 months

Eligibility:

  • Under State Pension age
  • Your partner paid National Insurance contributions for 25+ weeks
  • You were married or in a civil partnership at the time of death

How to apply:

Website: www.gov.uk/bereavement-support-payment
Telephone: 0800 151 2012

2. Funeral Expenses Payment

Support may be available if you receive certain benefits and are responsible for paying for the funeral.

What it may help cover:

  • Burial or cremation fees
  • Doctors’ certificates
  • Travel costs
  • Some funeral director fees

How to apply:

Website: www.gov.uk/funeral-payments
Helpline: 0800 731 0469
Email submission: cff@gov.sscl.com

Postal address:

CFF – Sortation Ref 603
Phoenix House
Newport
NP10 8FZ

Forms for England & Wales:

  • SF200 – Adult Claim Form
  • SF200 Child – For child funerals
  • Guidance notes available on GOV.UK

If needed, we can help families check eligibility or complete forms.

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3. Local Support — Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent

Some councils offer emergency financial assistance or hardship support during difficult times.

Find your local council:
www.gov.uk/find-local-council

Possible local support may include:

  • One-off hardship payments
  • Help with utility bills or essentials
  • Assistance with funeral paperwork
  • Referrals to debt and money advice services

We can help identify the correct department in your local area if required.

4. Free Financial & Benefits Guidance

Turn2us — Grants and Benefits Checker

MoneyHelper (Government-backed service)

StepChange Debt Charity

National Bereavement Service

Website: www.thenbs.org
Helpline: 0800 0246 121

5. Charities Offering Guidance During Bereavement

Cruse Bereavement Support

Marie Curie

Financial & End-of-Life Support
www.mariecurie.org.uk

Winston’s Wish

Support for children and young people
Helpline: 08088 020 021 | www.winstonswish.org

The Compassionate Friends

For bereaved parents & siblings
Helpline: 0345 123 2304 | www.tcf.org.uk

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6. Citizens Advice

Free and confidential advice on benefits, debt, legal matters and bereavement support.

Website: www.citizensadvice.org.uk
National Helpline: 0808 278 7997

Local offices are available across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent — we can help you find your nearest branch.

You’re Not Alone

If financial matters feel daunting — please talk to us. We can support you with paperwork, guide you through available options, and help signpost trusted organisations.

At Arlington Funeral Services, care extends beyond the day of the funeral — our support continues for as long as it is needed.

Arlington Funeral Services

Address: Arlington House, Ford Green Rd, Smallthorne, Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 1NX

Call Us : 01782 818888

Email: arlingtonfs@btconnect.com

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