Based on looking at the website sgfunerals.co.uk, it appears to be a legitimate and comprehensive funeral service provider. The site offers a transparent overview of their services, pricing, and commitment to compassionate care, which is crucial for families navigating such a sensitive time.
Overall Review Summary:
- Website Professionalism: High
- Information Clarity: Excellent
- Service Transparency: Good (pricing clearly listed for some services)
- Ethical Considerations (General): Appears high, focusing on dignity and community support.
- Ethical Considerations (Islamic Context): Accommodates “all faiths and communities,” which suggests they are open to providing services in line with Islamic practices, though specific details aren’t explicitly laid out on the homepage.
- Contact Information: Easily accessible
- Accreditations/Memberships: NAFD Member (National Association of Funeral Directors)
- User Experience: Clear navigation, responsive design.
The website immediately establishes trust by highlighting its independence and the extensive experience of its founders, Sue and Karl Gibbons. Sue’s background, stretching back to 1983 in embalming and including a distinguished career with the Greater Manchester Ambulance Service, lends significant credibility. The emphasis on “Traditional Community Values,” affordability, and 24-hour dignified care resonates strongly, especially during times of immense grief. They clearly outline various funeral options, including unattended, simple cremation, and burial services, along with transparent pricing for the first two. This directness in pricing is a significant plus, as many funeral homes are less forthcoming online. Their stated ability to accommodate “all faiths and communities” and expertise in repatriations further solidifies their suitability for a diverse clientele.
Best Alternatives for Funeral Services in the UK (General, not specific to Islamic funerals, but reputable providers):
-
0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.
Amazon.com: Check Amazon for Sgfunerals.co.uk Review
Latest Discussions & Reviews:
- Key Features: One of the UK’s largest funeral providers, extensive network of branches, wide range of funeral plans, clear pricing, bereavement support.
- Average Price: Varies widely by service and location; basic direct cremation from around £1,395.
- Pros: Widespread presence, trusted brand, comprehensive support, pre-paid funeral plans.
- Cons: Can sometimes be less personal than independent directors, larger scale might feel less intimate to some.
-
- Key Features: Another major UK funeral director, offers diverse funeral plans (including simple, traditional, and personalised), pre-paid options, online arrangement tools.
- Average Price: Competitive, often starts from £1,695 for direct cremation.
- Pros: Established and reputable, broad service offerings, good customer support.
- Cons: Similar to Co-op, the larger corporate structure might not appeal to those seeking a very local, independent feel.
-
- Key Features: Leading independent funeral plan provider in the UK, works with a network of over 3,000 independent funeral directors, offers various plans to fix costs at today’s prices.
- Average Price: Plans start from approximately £1,899 for a direct cremation plan.
- Pros: Peace of mind for future arrangements, supports local independent funeral directors, financially secure plans.
- Cons: Only provides plans, not direct funeral services; relies on the network of independent funeral directors.
-
- Key Features: Specialises in direct cremation services across the UK, simple and affordable, no attendance at the crematorium.
- Average Price: Direct cremation from £1,195.
- Pros: Most affordable option for cremation, straightforward process, ideal for those who prefer no ceremony.
- Cons: Very limited services, no traditional funeral or attendance at the committal.
-
- Key Features: Offers budget-friendly direct cremation services across the UK, focuses on simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
- Average Price: Direct cremation from around £1,195.
- Pros: Very low cost, simple process, nationwide service.
- Cons: No traditional funeral services, minimal family involvement in the committal.
-
Independent Funeral Directors (Broad Category)
- Key Features: Often family-run businesses, highly personal service, deep community ties, flexibility in arranging unique funerals, ability to tailor to specific cultural/religious needs.
- Average Price: Varies significantly by location and services; can be comparable to larger chains or sometimes more affordable for bespoke services.
- Pros: Personal touch, high level of care, flexible, strong local reputation.
- Cons: Geographic limitations, less uniform pricing across the board, may not have the extensive online presence of larger providers. To find one, local searches like “Funeral Directors London” or “Funeral Directors Birmingham” are recommended.
-
The National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) Directory (Resource, not a direct provider)
- Key Features: Provides a searchable directory of NAFD members across the UK, ensuring adherence to strict professional standards and a Code of Practice.
- Average Price: N/A (this is a directory).
- Pros: Ensures quality and ethical conduct from listed funeral directors, a reliable starting point for finding reputable services.
- Cons: Not a direct service provider; users must contact individual funeral homes.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
[ratemypost]
sgfunerals.co.uk Review & First Look
Upon visiting sgfunerals.co.uk, the immediate impression is one of professionalism and clarity. The homepage is well-structured, providing essential information upfront without overwhelming the user during a potentially distressing time. The design is clean, with a soothing colour palette that reinforces a sense of calm and respect. The site quickly establishes its core mission: “Helping Families Connect, Honor & Remember.” This focus on compassion and support is paramount for a service of this nature.
Initial Impressions of the Homepage
The homepage is strategically laid out, guiding visitors through the critical aspects of their service. Key contact information, including a phone number and operating hours (Monday-Friday 9:00 to 17:00), is prominently displayed at the top, ensuring immediate access for urgent inquiries. Below this, a compelling hero section introduces them as “YOUR INDEPENDENT FUNERAL DIRECTORS,” emphasising their autonomy and potentially more personalised approach compared to larger corporate chains.
Trust Signals and Credibility
Several elements on the homepage work effectively to build trust and credibility. Firstly, the explicit mention of their establishment in 2018 and the extensive experience of Sue Gibbons, dating back to 1983, provides a strong foundation of expertise. Her background with The North West School of Embalming and the Greater Manchester Ambulance Service adds significant weight to their professional standing. Secondly, their proud membership of the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) is a critical trust signal. NAFD membership assures visitors that sgfunerals.co.uk adheres to rigorous standards of professionalism, ethics, and quality, offering peace of mind. This is reinforced by statements like, “This membership signifies our commitment to providing transparent, compassionate, and expert care to every family we serve.”
Service Offerings Overview
The website clearly outlines the range of services available, categorised intuitively. Sections like “Types of Funeral” and “Services” are immediately accessible. They explicitly state their commitment to “fair pricing without compromising on the highest level of care,” which is a crucial consideration for most families. The inclusion of transparent pricing for “Unattended Funeral Service” (£1695) and “Simple Cremation” (starts at £3150) is highly commendable. This level of upfront cost transparency is not always standard in the funeral industry and demonstrates a commitment to openness. For “Burials,” they advise direct contact, which is understandable given the variable nature of burial plot costs and associated disbursements.
sgfunerals.co.uk Features
sgfunerals.co.uk offers a range of features designed to provide comprehensive support and service during a difficult period. These features reflect their commitment to affordability, compassionate care, and community values. Mercicleaning.co.uk Review
Compassionate and Professional Staff
The website prominently highlights its “Compassionate staff” and states their aim to “alleviate the burden during a difficult time, ensuring your loved one receives dignified, personal, and compassionate care 24 hours a day.” This emphasis on the human element is vital in funeral services, where empathy and understanding are paramount. The fact that Sue and Karl Gibbons, both seasoned professionals, founded the service, suggests a deep-rooted dedication to their vocation.
Transparent and Affordable Pricing
One of the most significant features of sgfunerals.co.uk is its commitment to “Affordable and professional” services. Unlike many funeral director websites that require direct contact for pricing, sgfunerals.co.uk provides clear costs for an “Unattended Funeral Service” (£1695, including crematorium and doctor’s fees) and a “Simple Cremation” (starts at £3150, including limousine and specified third-party costs). This transparency allows families to understand potential expenses upfront, which is invaluable when making difficult decisions under emotional duress.
Range of Funeral Options
The site details various funeral options to suit different needs and budgets:
- Unattended Funeral Service: A cost-effective option for those who prefer a direct cremation or burial without a formal service.
- Simple Cremation: A more traditional cremation service that includes a limousine and specified third-party costs, indicating a more involved, yet still streamlined, process.
- Burials: While specific pricing isn’t listed due to variable costs (e.g., plot fees), they invite contact for tailored arrangements.
- Pre-Paid Funeral Plans: This feature offers individuals the ability to plan and pay for their funeral in advance, providing “peace of mind for you and your loved ones” and alleviating financial burden on surviving family members.
Community Involvement and Support
Beyond direct funeral services, sgfunerals.co.uk underscores its deep commitment to the Wigan community. The website mentions Sue’s dedication to supporting local ambulance services, community Dementia clinics, and local youth teams. This civic engagement suggests a business deeply rooted in and caring for its local area, which can further build trust with potential clients. “These efforts underscore our mission to provide unwavering support and professional service during times of loss across the Wigan Community.”
Accommodation of All Faiths and Repatriation Expertise
A crucial feature highlighted is their ability to “accommodate for all faiths and communities” and their “expertise to arrange for repatriations.” This is particularly important in diverse societies like the UK, where funeral rites vary significantly across different religious and cultural backgrounds, including Islamic traditions. The capacity for repatriation is also vital for families who wish for their loved ones to be buried in their country of origin. This flexibility suggests a broad understanding of diverse needs. Percipient.co.uk Review
sgfunerals.co.uk Pros & Cons
Evaluating sgfunerals.co.uk involves looking at both its strengths and areas where it could potentially enhance its online presence.
Pros of sgfunerals.co.uk
- Transparent Pricing: A significant advantage is the upfront display of pricing for unattended funeral services and simple cremations. This level of clarity helps families budget and understand costs without needing to make an initial inquiry, fostering trust. Research by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in the UK consistently highlights consumer demand for greater price transparency in the funeral sector.
- NAFD Membership: Being a member of the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) immediately signals adherence to a strict Code of Practice and high professional standards. This provides reassurance of ethical conduct and quality service. The NAFD represents over 4,000 funeral homes in the UK.
- Experienced Directors: The extensive experience of Sue and Karl Gibbons, particularly Sue’s background dating back to 1983, instils confidence in their expertise and capability to handle sensitive situations professionally.
- Community Focus: Their stated commitment to the Wigan community and involvement in local initiatives adds a layer of trustworthiness and suggests a genuine care for the people they serve, beyond just business transactions.
- Accommodation of All Faiths: The explicit mention of accommodating “all faiths and communities” is a major positive, especially for diverse populations in the UK who require specific religious rites, such as Islamic funerals, which have distinct requirements (e.g., immediate burial, specific washing, no embalming unless necessary for repatriation).
- Clear Contact Information: Phone numbers are prominently displayed, making it easy for individuals to get immediate assistance, which is critical in their line of work.
- Pre-Paid Funeral Plans: Offering pre-paid plans provides a valuable service for future planning, easing the burden on families during bereavement and allowing individuals to secure funeral costs at current prices.
Cons of sgfunerals.co.uk
- Limited Online Detail for Islamic Services: While they state they accommodate “all faiths,” specific details regarding Islamic funeral services (e.g., ghusl facilities, wooden coffins for burial, immediate burial arrangements, non-embalming options) are not explicitly outlined on the homepage. Families seeking an Islamic funeral might still need to make a direct inquiry for reassurance on these specifics. Adding a dedicated section or FAQ for faith-specific services would enhance clarity.
- Absence of Online Testimonials/Reviews: Although the site states “Read What Our Families Say About Us,” there isn’t a readily visible section of customer testimonials on the homepage. User reviews are powerful social proof, and their absence can mean a missed opportunity to build further trust. A 2023 study by Statista indicated that 79% of UK consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations.
- No Online Arrangement Tools: The website provides information but doesn’t appear to offer tools for initial arrangements or queries online, beyond a general contact form. While direct personal interaction is often preferred for funeral arrangements, some initial online tools could streamline the process for modern users.
- Lack of detailed service breakdown for Burials: While understandable that costs vary, providing a general guide or typical inclusions for burials (e.g., basic hearse, minister/celebrant fees, grave digging) could improve transparency even if exact plot costs are excluded.
sgfunerals.co.uk Alternatives
When considering alternatives to sgfunerals.co.uk, especially for families seeking services that align with Islamic principles, it’s essential to look for providers that explicitly understand and cater to these unique requirements. While sgfunerals.co.uk states they accommodate “all faiths,” specialist providers may offer more detailed assurances.
Specialised Islamic Funeral Services in the UK
Many cities across the UK have dedicated Islamic funeral service providers who understand the nuances of Janazah (Islamic funeral) rites. These services typically include:
- Ghuls (Washing): Facilities and trained personnel for ritual washing of the deceased by family members of the same gender or designated individuals.
- Kafan (Shroud): Provision of the specific white shrouds for men and women.
- Janazah Prayer: Coordination with local mosques for the funeral prayer.
- Expedited Burial: Understanding the Islamic emphasis on immediate burial, often within 24 hours.
- Simple Coffin: Provision of a simple, unadorned coffin, often made of plain wood, to facilitate decomposition and adherence to tradition.
- No Embalming (unless legally required for repatriation): Adherence to the preference against embalming unless absolutely necessary for international transfer.
Here are some notable alternatives, including general reputable funeral directors and those with a known focus on Islamic services:
-
Green Lane Masjid & Community Centre Funeral Services, Birmingham Gardenis.co.uk Review
- Key Features: Dedicated funeral service for the Muslim community in Birmingham, offering full Janazah services, including Ghusl, Kafan, Janazah prayer arrangement, and burial coordination. Emphasis on Islamic guidelines.
- Pros: Deep understanding of Islamic rites, community-driven, often very responsive for immediate burials.
- Cons: Primarily serves the local Birmingham area, may require families from outside the region to arrange transport.
-
Muslim Burial Council of Leicestershire (MBCOL)
- Key Features: Provides comprehensive Islamic funeral services, including Ghusl, Kafan, transportation, and coordination with local cemeteries for timely burial according to Islamic tradition. Focuses on supporting bereaved Muslim families.
- Pros: Specialised in Islamic funerals, strong community ties, provides clear guidance on processes.
- Cons: Primarily serves Leicestershire, requiring families outside the area to look for local equivalents.
-
Gardner’s Funeral Directors, London
- Key Features: A long-established funeral director in London that explicitly offers Islamic funeral services, including Ghusl facilities, Kafan, mosque coordination, and understanding of expedited burial requirements.
- Pros: Reputable general funeral director with specific expertise in Islamic funerals, broader reach within London.
- Cons: As a general director, ensure specific Islamic practices are fully understood and committed to.
-
- Key Features: As a major national provider, Co-op Funeralcare has branches across the UK and many are experienced in facilitating funerals for various faiths, including Islam. They can often provide basic services and coordinate with local mosques and community leaders.
- Pros: Widespread availability, structured processes, and ability to coordinate complex arrangements.
- Cons: While they can facilitate, they may not have the same in-depth, hands-on Islamic expertise as dedicated Muslim funeral services; families might need to be more proactive in specifying requirements.
-
- Key Features: Similar to Co-op, Dignity is a large national chain. Many of their local branches have experience working with Muslim communities and can arrange for appropriate facilities and services, like Ghusl, and expedited burials.
- Pros: Large network, professional service, often flexible in accommodating specific religious needs.
- Cons: May require clear communication from the family regarding the precise Islamic rites to ensure all steps are followed correctly.
-
Local Mosque or Islamic Centre Funeral Committees Tsmarine.co.uk Review
- Key Features: Many large mosques and Islamic centres in the UK have dedicated funeral committees or departments. These are often run by volunteers or dedicated staff who provide support, guidance, and direct assistance with all aspects of an Islamic funeral, from washing to burial. They often have established relationships with local cemeteries.
- Pros: Deepest understanding of Islamic law, community support, often very cost-effective or free for certain services.
- Cons: Services can vary significantly by mosque; may not have extensive professional infrastructure like a dedicated funeral home.
- How to find: Search “Islamic funeral services near me” or contact your local mosque.
-
Amazon UK Search for Islamic Funeral Books
- Key Features: While not a service provider, searching for guides on Amazon can provide families with essential knowledge about Islamic funeral rites. This empowers them to understand the process and ensure any chosen funeral director adheres to the necessary practices.
- Pros: Educational, helps families make informed decisions.
- Cons: Not a direct service.
Families should always directly contact any potential funeral director to confirm their specific capabilities and experience in arranging Islamic funerals, detailing requirements such as Ghusl, Kafan, immediate burial, and the avoidance of embalming unless legally mandated for international repatriation.
How to Cancel sgfunerals.co.uk Pre-Paid Funeral Plan
If you have arranged a pre-paid funeral plan with sgfunerals.co.uk, understanding the cancellation process is crucial. Pre-paid funeral plans are typically managed through third-party plan providers, not directly by the funeral director themselves. sgfunerals.co.uk states, “A prepaid funeral plan offers peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Please visit our page or contact us for more information.” This suggests they likely partner with a recognised funeral plan provider.
Identifying Your Plan Provider
The first step to cancelling your pre-paid funeral plan is to identify the specific plan provider with whom your plan was purchased. Common UK pre-paid funeral plan providers include: Thebathroomguy.co.uk Review
- Golden Charter
- Dignity
- Co-op Funeralcare
- Safe Hands (now defunct, plans transferred to Dignity)
- Pure Cremation (for direct cremation plans)
You should have received documentation from the plan provider when you initially set up the plan. This documentation will contain the terms and conditions, including details on cancellation.
Steps to Cancel Your Plan
- Locate Plan Documentation: Find all paperwork related to your pre-paid funeral plan. This will include your plan certificate, terms and conditions, and contact details for the plan provider.
- Contact the Plan Provider Directly: Do not contact sgfunerals.co.uk initially for cancellation. You must contact the plan provider directly. Their contact details will be on your documentation. You may need your plan number for verification.
- Review Cancellation Terms: Carefully read the cancellation terms and conditions. Most pre-paid funeral plans allow for cancellation, but the refund policy varies significantly.
- Cooling-Off Period: There is typically a 14 to 30-day cooling-off period from the date of purchase during which you can cancel and receive a full refund.
- After Cooling-Off Period: If you cancel after the cooling-off period, you may receive a partial refund, or an administration fee may be deducted. Some plans may only refund the original amount paid, while others might offer a proportion of the accumulated value. In some cases, if you cancel many years after purchase, you might not receive a full refund of your original payment, as administration and setup costs may be retained.
- “At Need” Plans: If the funeral service is already “at need” (i.e., the person has passed away and the plan is being used), cancellation terms are usually different, or cancellation may not be possible.
- Submit Written Request: Many plan providers require a written request for cancellation. Follow their specific instructions, which might include sending a letter or an email. Keep copies of all correspondence.
- Confirm Cancellation and Refund: Once you have submitted your request, follow up to confirm the cancellation and inquire about the expected refund amount and processing time. Refunds are typically issued to the original payment method.
Considerations Before Cancelling
- Financial Implications: Understand how much money you will get back, if any, after any deductions.
- Alternative Arrangements: If you are cancelling because you no longer need the plan, ensure you have alternative arrangements in place for future funeral costs, such as savings or a new plan with a different provider.
- Inflation: Remember that pre-paid plans typically fix the funeral director’s costs at today’s prices, protecting against future inflation. Cancelling and then setting up a new plan later might mean paying more.
Given that sgfunerals.co.uk refers clients to their “pre-paid funerals” page, it would be beneficial for them to explicitly state their partner plan provider on the website to streamline this process for consumers.
sgfunerals.co.uk Pricing
One of the stand-out features of sgfunerals.co.uk is its commitment to transparent pricing for certain services, a practice not universally adopted across the funeral industry. This directness helps families understand potential costs upfront, which is invaluable during a time of emotional vulnerability.
Unattended Funeral Service
- Price: £1695
- Inclusions:
- Crematorium fee
- Doctor’s fee for medical certificate (if required for cremation)
- Initial meeting at their office (during regular hours) for arrangements and form completion.
- Alternative arrangements via telephone, email, or post upon request.
- Transportation of the deceased from a local location (within 15 miles) during regular office hours to their facility.
- Care for the deceased until the funeral.
- Supply of a simple coffin and gown.
- Key Detail: This service is for a direct cremation or burial without any attendance by family or friends at the committal. It is a cost-effective option for those who do not wish for a formal service.
Simple Cremation
- Price: Starts at £3150
- Inclusions:
- Provision of comprehensive funeral director’s services.
- Collection of the deceased from any local address within a 20-mile radius of their office.
- Supply of an oak veneered coffin with gown or interior suite (when own clothes are provided).
- Includes a limousine (presumably for family transport to the crematorium).
- Specified third-party costs (these are typically known as disbursements and can include cremation fees, doctor’s fees, and potentially minister/celebrant fees, although the specific breakdown is not detailed on the homepage).
- Key Detail: This is a more traditional cremation service that allows for family attendance at the crematorium service. The “starts at” indicates there might be additional costs depending on specific choices or requirements.
Burials
- Price: Starts at £3350
- Inclusions:
- Disbursements (these are third-party costs like grave digging fees, minister/celebrant fees, and often the cost of the burial plot itself).
- Hearse and service (implying a traditional funeral procession and attendance at the graveside or a service before burial).
- Key Detail: Unlike unattended funeral and simple cremation, the website directs users to “Please contact us to discuss your arrangements.” This is common for burials because the cost of a burial plot varies significantly by cemetery, local authority, and whether it’s a new plot or reopening an existing one. The specific type of headstone, if desired, is also an additional variable cost.
General Pricing Philosophy
sgfunerals.co.uk clearly aims to provide “fair pricing without compromising on the highest level of care.” This commitment to affordability is a strong selling point for families. While they provide specific costs for cremation options, the lack of itemised lists for “specified third party costs” and detailed breakdown for burials means a direct consultation is necessary for a full understanding of the total expenditure for these services. This is standard industry practice, but full transparency would ideally include examples of typical disbursements.
sgfunerals.co.uk vs. Co-op Funeralcare
When comparing sgfunerals.co.uk with a major national provider like Co-op Funeralcare, several distinctions emerge in terms of scale, service delivery, and pricing transparency. Cdob.co.uk Review
Scale and Reach
- sgfunerals.co.uk: An independent, local funeral director based in Wigan, serving the local community. Their operations are more localised, allowing for a potentially more personal touch and deep community ties. They have one main office and a more limited geographic reach.
- Co-op Funeralcare: One of the largest funeral service providers in the UK, with an extensive network of over 1,000 funeral homes nationwide. This vast scale means they have a presence in almost every major town and city, offering convenience and standardised services across different regions.
Service Personalisation vs. Standardisation
- sgfunerals.co.uk: As an independent director, they often pride themselves on offering highly personalised services tailored to individual family needs. The emphasis on “traditional community values” and direct involvement of founders Sue and Karl Gibbons suggests a bespoke approach to each funeral. They explicitly mention accommodating “all faiths and communities,” implying flexibility.
- Co-op Funeralcare: While Co-op offers various funeral options (simple, traditional, personalised), their services are generally more standardised across their branches due to their corporate structure. This ensures consistency but might feel less intimate to some families. However, their size allows for robust training and adherence to industry best practices. They do offer cultural and religious funeral services, but the level of individual understanding might vary between branches.
Pricing Transparency
- sgfunerals.co.uk: Commendably, they list clear prices for “Unattended Funeral Service” (£1695) and “Simple Cremation” (starts at £3150) directly on their homepage. This upfront transparency is a significant advantage.
- Co-op Funeralcare: Co-op also provides clear pricing on their website, often breaking down costs into ‘Funeral Director’s Services’ and ‘Third Party Costs (Disbursements)’. For example, their basic direct cremation can start from around £1,395, and a simple cremation might be £3,100 upwards. While transparent, the structure might be more detailed or require navigation through their site to find specific price lists for various packages.
Membership and Accreditations
- sgfunerals.co.uk: A proud member of the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD), which is a strong indicator of professional standards and ethical conduct.
- Co-op Funeralcare: Also a member of the NAFD and other professional bodies. Their larger corporate structure often means they adhere to stringent internal and external regulatory requirements.
Pre-Paid Funeral Plans
- sgfunerals.co.uk: Offers pre-paid funeral plans, advising visitors to “visit our page or contact us for more information,” implying they work with a third-party plan provider.
- Co-op Funeralcare: Offers its own range of pre-paid funeral plans directly, providing a clear structure and various options managed within their own system.
Overall Comparison
| Feature | sgfunerals.co.uk | Co-op Funeralcare |
|---|---|---|
| Scale | Independent, local (Wigan) | National, large network |
| Personalisation | High, community-focused, bespoke | Standardised with personalisation options |
| Pricing Transparency | Clear upfront prices for key services | Clear price lists, itemised on website |
| Experience | Long-standing (Sue Gibbons since 1983) | Extensive national experience |
| Faith Accommodation | States “all faiths,” flexible | Experienced in diverse faith funerals |
| Pre-Paid Plans | Offers, likely via third-party provider | Own-brand plans |
| Online Tools | Informative website, no direct online arrangements | More robust online tools for planning and guidance |
For families prioritising a highly personal, local touch and direct engagement with experienced directors, sgfunerals.co.uk presents a strong option. For those who value the convenience of a large national network, standardised services, and potentially more online arrangement features, Co-op Funeralcare might be preferred. Both appear to offer professional and ethical services.
FAQ
What services does sgfunerals.co.uk offer?
sgfunerals.co.uk offers a range of funeral services, including unattended funeral services, simple cremation, and traditional burials. They also provide pre-paid funeral plans and guidance, striving to accommodate all faiths and communities with professional care.
Is sgfunerals.co.uk a legitimate funeral director?
Yes, based on their website information, sgfunerals.co.uk appears to be a legitimate and established funeral director. They clearly state their establishment in 2018, highlight the extensive experience of their founders (Sue Gibbons since 1983), and proudly display their membership with the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD).
How transparent is sgfunerals.co.uk about its pricing?
sgfunerals.co.uk is commendably transparent about its pricing for some services, explicitly listing costs for their “Unattended Funeral Service” (£1695) and “Simple Cremation” (starts at £3150) on their homepage. For burials, they advise direct contact due to variable costs.
Does sgfunerals.co.uk accommodate Islamic funeral rites?
Yes, sgfunerals.co.uk states on their homepage that they “can accommodate for all faiths and communities.” While specific details regarding Islamic rites (like Ghusl, Kafan, or expedited burial) are not explicitly outlined, this statement indicates their willingness and capability to work with Muslim families. Brightyoungthings.co.uk Review
What is the cost of an unattended funeral service with sgfunerals.co.uk?
An unattended funeral service with sgfunerals.co.uk costs £1695, which includes the crematorium fee and the doctor’s fee for the medical certificate. This service does not include family attendance at the committal.
What is included in the simple cremation service?
The simple cremation service from sgfunerals.co.uk starts at £3150 and includes comprehensive funeral director’s services, collection of the deceased within a 20-mile radius, supply of an oak veneered coffin, a limousine, and specified third-party costs (disbursements).
Does sgfunerals.co.uk offer pre-paid funeral plans?
Yes, sgfunerals.co.uk offers pre-paid funeral plans. They encourage visitors to review their dedicated page or contact them for more information, indicating they likely partner with a recognised funeral plan provider.
How can I contact sgfunerals.co.uk?
You can contact sgfunerals.co.uk by phone at 01942 820290. Their office hours are Monday-Friday, 9:00 to 17:00, and they also offer 24-hour compassionate care. A contact form is also available on their website.
What does NAFD membership mean for sgfunerals.co.uk?
NAFD (National Association of Funeral Directors) membership signifies that sgfunerals.co.uk adheres to rigorous standards of professionalism, ethics, and quality set by the association. It offers reassurance to families about the quality and conduct of the service. Almalondon.co.uk Review
Where is sgfunerals.co.uk located?
sgfunerals.co.uk is located in Wigan, serving the local community and surrounding areas like Bolton and Manchester, as mentioned in their ‘About Us’ section.
Can I arrange funeral services over the phone or email with sgfunerals.co.uk?
Yes, for their unattended funeral service, sgfunerals.co.uk explicitly states that arrangements can be handled via telephone, email, or post upon request, in addition to an initial in-office meeting.
Does sgfunerals.co.uk provide embalming services?
While the founder, Sue Gibbons, has a background in embalming, the website does not explicitly detail embalming as a standard service offering or inclusion. Families should inquire directly if embalming is required or to understand their policy on it, especially for specific faith-based requirements.
How does sgfunerals.co.uk support the community?
sgfunerals.co.uk, through Sue Gibbons, supports various community services including local Ambulance services, community Dementia clinics, and local youth teams, highlighting their commitment to the Wigan community beyond funeral services.
Are there reviews or testimonials available for sgfunerals.co.uk?
The website states “Read What Our Families Say About Us” but does not display direct testimonials on the homepage. While they likely have positive feedback, direct integration of reviews would enhance trust. Kogenryu.co.uk Review
What is the average price for a burial with sgfunerals.co.uk?
The website states that burials start at £3350, including disbursements, hearse, and service. However, they require direct contact to discuss arrangements, as burial plot costs and other fees can vary significantly.
Does sgfunerals.co.uk handle repatriations?
Yes, sgfunerals.co.uk explicitly states that they have the “expertise to arrange for repatriations,” meaning they can assist with the process of transporting a deceased person to their country of origin for burial.
How long has Sue Gibbons been in the funeral service industry?
Sue Gibbons began her career in the funeral service industry in 1983, training at The North West School of Embalming, giving her over 40 years of experience.
Can I get a full refund if I cancel a pre-paid funeral plan with sgfunerals.co.uk?
Cancellation terms for pre-paid funeral plans depend on the specific plan provider sgfunerals.co.uk partners with and the terms of the plan. Typically, a full refund is possible within a cooling-off period (e.g., 14-30 days), but after this, administration fees may be deducted or a partial refund issued. You must contact the plan provider directly.
What types of coffins does sgfunerals.co.uk provide?
For their unattended funeral service, sgfunerals.co.uk provides a “simple coffin.” For their simple cremation service, they supply an “oak veneered coffin with gown or interior suite.” Specific options for burials would need to be discussed directly. Npcspestcontrol.co.uk Review
Does sgfunerals.co.uk offer 24-hour service?
Yes, sgfunerals.co.uk states they provide “dignified, personal, and compassionate care 24 hours a day,” indicating they offer immediate assistance outside of regular office hours for urgent needs.
Leave a Reply