Cash-strapped families dealing with the loss of a loved one are resorting to alternative means such as loan sharks or crowdfunding to cover funeral expenses, a recent report has highlighted. One individual shared his experience of turning to crowdfunding to finance his brother’s funeral.
According to research, the average cost of a traditional attended funeral surged by 5.3% to £4,510 in the past year, marking the most significant annual increase since 2016. Findings from surveys indicate that 15% of individuals who have organized funerals in recent times faced financial challenges during payment. Among those facing financial difficulties, approximately 12% resorted to crowdfunding, while 8% sought financial assistance from unregulated lenders like loan sharks.
The escalation in funeral costs can be attributed to a rise in cremation and burial fees, increased prices of coffins, and higher living expenses, as highlighted in a report by SunLife. Amid these circumstances, a young man shared his fundraising efforts for his brother’s funeral after his sudden passing last month.
Karl-Frederick Hughes, a 20-year-old aspiring university student, tragically passed away following a severe epileptic seizure and subsequent cardiac arrest. To cover the funeral expenses, a GoFundMe campaign has raised around £3,000 of the £10,000 target. Max Hughes, Karl-Frederick’s brother, expressed the family’s financial struggles, especially since their father, the primary breadwinner, passed away a decade ago.
Max emphasized the financial strain families endure, stating that burying a loved one, especially a 20-year-old, should not be a financial burden on top of the emotional pain. Describing his brother’s character, Max highlighted Karl-Frederick’s caring nature and humor, underscoring the void left by his untimely death.
The family aims to organize a fitting tribute for Karl-Frederick, including a wake to celebrate his life. Max estimated the total costs to exceed £7,500, not accounting for additional expenses such as a gravestone and the wake itself. Lindesay Mace from Down to Earth, a funeral poverty service, emphasized the severe impact of financial struggles on individuals coping with bereavement.
In the UK, a basic attended funeral, which excludes certain extras like memorials and flowers, is now the most popular choice, costing an average of £3,828. When additional elements such as catering, venue hire, and flowers are included, the total expenditure on an average funeral reaches £5,140, according to SunLife’s report.
Research conducted with funeral directors and individuals involved in funeral arrangements underscored the ongoing challenge of escalating funeral costs. Mark Screeton, SunLife’s CEO, highlighted the increasing financial strain on families bidding farewell to their loved ones.
