Farra is a death administration assistant for UK families. Get step-by-step guidance for registering a death, applying for probate, notifying banks, and managing bereavement admin. From essential documents to practical checklists, Farra simplifies estate paperwork and funeral-related tasks so you can focus on what matters.
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In England, burial and cremation fees for all children under 18 are covered at no cost through the Children's Funeral Fund for England. There is no means test — any family who loses a child under 18 is eligible. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have broadly equivalent schemes. The fund covers burial and cremation fees, but does not cover the funeral director's professional fees, which remain payable by the family.
The death of a child is one of the most devastating experiences a family can face. Understanding what financial support is available — and how to access it — should be the last thing on anyone's mind at such a time. This guide brings together the key information in one place, clearly and without jargon.
The Children's Funeral Fund for England was established in 2019 to ensure that no family in England should face burial or cremation costs when a child dies. Key facts about the fund:
The fund is administered by NHS England. If you are arranging a child's funeral, tell your funeral director about the Children's Funeral Fund — they should be familiar with the process and will claim the relevant fees directly, reducing the amount you need to pay.
Funeral director fees are still payable:
The fund covers burial or cremation fees charged by the cemetery or crematorium. It does not cover the funeral director's professional fees for conducting the funeral, coffin costs, transportation, or other services. These remain the responsibility of the family. Some funeral directors offer discounted or free services for child funerals — it is always worth asking.
Funeral funding for children is a devolved matter, and Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland each have their own schemes. While broadly similar to the English fund, the details vary:
If you are unsure which fund applies, contact your funeral director or the relevant government website for your nation.
A stillbirth is legally defined as a baby born dead after 24 completed weeks of pregnancy. Births before 24 weeks that result in a baby who does not show any signs of life are classified as miscarriages, not stillbirths, for legal purposes.
For stillbirths (24 weeks and above):
For pregnancy losses before 24 weeks (miscarriages):
A number of charities provide practical and financial help to families who have experienced the loss of a baby or child:
Many of these organisations can also help with the practical administration that follows a baby's death — including what to do about benefits, maternity leave, and registration — which can feel overwhelming at an already incredibly difficult time.
Ask for a bereavement midwife:
If your baby died in hospital, ask for support from the hospital's bereavement midwife or bereavement team. Most NHS hospitals have dedicated staff who can guide you through the immediate practical steps, explain what support is available, and connect you with relevant charities. You do not have to navigate this alone.
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