Support if you know you're dying
Planning ahead: support with end-of-life plans
Thinking about the end of life isn't always easy, but for many people, making plans in advance brings peace of mind. It can also make things a little easier for the people you love by helping them understand your wishes.
Whether you're thinking about your funeral, writing a Will or simply getting your affairs in order, our caring team is here to help whenever you're ready.
How we can support you
Conversations about death and dying can feel difficult, but they can also be one of the kindest gifts you leave for your family and friends.
Sharing your wishes means your loved ones are less likely to have to make difficult decisions on your behalf. It also gives you the chance to talk about what matters most to you.
You might choose to have these conversations with:
A family member or close friend
Your GP or another healthcare professional
A hospice or palliative care team
A trusted adviser or counsellor
Everyone approaches these conversations differently. It's perfectly okay to take your time, have more than one conversation, or come back to it when the time feels right.
If you'd like to talk through your funeral wishes, our experienced funeral directors are always happy to listen and answer any questions.
Every funeral is personal. It can be traditional or contemporary, religious or non-religious, simple or full of personal touches. There is no right or wrong way to say goodbye.
Some people know exactly what they want, while others prefer to leave the decisions to their family. Whatever feels right for you, we're here to help.
You might want to think about:
Whether you'd like a burial or cremation
Where you'd like your service to be held
Music, readings or poems that are meaningful to you
Who you'd like to take part in the service
Whether you'd like family and friends to wear anything special
Where you'd like people to gather afterwards
What you'd like to happen to your ashes, if you're choosing cremation
Where you’d like to be buried, if you’re choosing a burial
You don't have to make every decision now. Even writing down a few wishes and sharing them with someone you trust can be a great help to your family in the future.
Having an up-to-date Will helps make sure your wishes are understood after your death. It can explain how you'd like your money, property and personal belongings to be shared, and can also include arrangements for children or pets if needed.
If you already have a Will, it's worth reviewing it from time to time to make sure it still reflects your wishes. It's also important that someone you trust knows where it's stored.
If you don't yet have a Will, a local legal professional can advise you on the best options for your circumstances.
Some people choose to make arrangements in case they become unable to make decisions for themselves in the future.
The legal options available differ between Jersey and Guernsey, so it's a good idea to speak with a local legal adviser who can explain what arrangements are available and help you decide what's right for you.
Planning ahead can also help you think about the cost of a funeral.
Every funeral is different, and there are options to suit a range of budgets. A meaningful farewell doesn't have to be elaborate or expensive.
If you'd like to understand the costs involved, our funeral directors can talk you through the different choices available and provide a clear estimate with no obligation.
Having key information in one place can make things much easier for your loved ones when the time comes.
You may wish to keep details of:
Bank accounts and savings
Insurance policies
Pension information
Your Will
Important contact details
Passwords or instructions for online accounts
Let someone you trust know where these documents are stored so they can find them when they're needed.
If organ donation is something that's important to you, make sure your family knows your wishes. Having that conversation now can provide reassurance and clarity later.
Many of us have online accounts, social media profiles and digital photos that we'd like someone to look after.
You may find it helpful to leave instructions about your online accounts, including who should manage or close them, and where important passwords or login details can be found.
Planning ahead is a personal decision, and there's no pressure to have all the answers.
Whether you'd like to make detailed arrangements or simply explore your options, our experienced funeral directors are here to offer guidance, answer your questions and help you make informed choices at your own pace.
Whenever you're ready, we're here to support you.