Preparing for Death
We recognise that death will come one day and with it sorrow and grief for our surviving family and friends.
Some simple practical arrangements made in advance can help reduce the number of decisions at the time of death.
At some time you might be in a position to help someone, for whom you care, prepare for his or her death, by ensuring his or her affairs are in order and that his or her wishes are completely and clearly understood.
Your next-of-kin, your local clergyman, your solicitor and the funeral director of your choice can help you make the appropriate preparations. What these are will depend very much on your own marital, family and financial circumstances, but basic preparations could include the following:
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Ensuring your affairs are in order.
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Make sure that those who need to know are in fact aware of where all your personal documents are held.
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Make sure also that your keys and important documents are kept in known places.
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Keep your financial and personal business papers together so that the handling of your estate doesn't create unnecessary problems.
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You can record most of the essential information that will be required at the time of a funeral in the Personal Profile Record. This Personal Profile Record is available from Peter Tobin Funerals; fill it in and leave a copy with your next-of-kin, executor or a close friend.
Making a Will
It really is essential to make a legally binding Will if you wish to ensure the person or persons of your choice inherit your possessions. A valid Will simplifies the handling of your estate for your survivors. Your Will can be properly drawn up by a solicitor or trustee company and should be reviewed periodically, especially if your marital or family circumstances change.