Information Density: Freeman Brothers – Signal Evidence & AI Readability

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[H3] Arranging a Funeral
Our comprehensive but easy-to-follow guide to planning a funeral, including key decisions and a step-by-step walkthrough of the process.

Find out more

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[H3] Prepaid Funeral Plans
View details about our prepaid plans that allow you to plan ahead and pay for your funeral in advance.

Explore pre-paid plans

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[H3] Direct Cremations – from £1,395
A simple, dignified option for families who prefer a cremation without a service, planned with care and respect at every step.

Arrange a direct cremation

[H2] Why choose Freeman Brothers?

Run by the same family for six generations, we have proudly served the communities of Sussex and Surrey since 1855. We understand the importance of offering compassionate, personalised support during life’s most challenging moments.

Based from our offices in Horsham, Billingshurst, Crawley, and Hurstpierpoint, our team ensures every funeral is handled with care, respect, and attention to detail, providing a service unique to your loved one.
We value customer feedback and believe every family deserves to be treated with dignity and kindness. Our experienced staff guide you through the process, helping you make informed decisions with confidence and clarity. From traditional funerals to direct cremations, we tailor our services to meet your needs and honour your loved one’s wishes.
With over 160 years of experience, Freeman Brothers is a trusted name in funeral care, known for our expertise, community involvement, and commitment to families.

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“Martin at Freeman’s is lovely. He was extremely helpful and understanding with the arrangements for our father’s funeral and then interment of his ashes which was done at very short notice. All the arrangements were dealt with smoothly and no stress whatsoever for the family.”

“Freeman Brothers were suggested to my wife after the sad death of her Father in April. This review is not just from me but on behalf of my wife Sharon as well.We expected a professional and dignified service and we certainly got that. However, that is only part of the story. Chrissie was wonderful throughout and her caring attitude really made a...”

“We contacted Freeman Brothers in Hurstpierpoint after the death of our beloved Mum/Nan/Great Nan/Great Great Nan. From our first meeting with Russell we knew we had made the right choice. He immediately made us feel at ease and was so easy to talk to, so kind and caring. At such a sad time it was a great comfort.”

[H2] Call us on:
01403 254590
or email mail@freemanbrothers.co.uk

Get in touch

[H2] Make a general enquiry

[H3] Contact us:
9 North Parade
Horsham
West Sussex
RH12 2BP
01403 254590
mail@freemanbrothers.co.uk

[H3] Opening hours:

Monday
8:00 am – 6:00pm

Tuesday
8:00 am – 6:00pm

Wednesday
8:00 am – 5:00pm

Thursday
8:00 am – 6:00pm

Friday
8:00 am – 6:00pm

Saturday
9:00 am – 1:00pm

Sunday
Closed

[H2] Enquiry form

[H2] Call us on:
01403 254590
or email mail@freemanbrothers.co.uk

Get in touch

[H2] Make a general enquiry

Step 1

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First Steps

When a loved one passes away, the first few steps can feel overwhelming. This section takes you through what needs to be done initially, from registering the death to notifying family and friends.
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Step 2

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Things to Consider

There are several decisions to make when arranging a funeral. Here we provide advice on choosing between burial or cremation, selecting a venue, and budgeting for the service.
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Step 3

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The Service

Creating a meaningful funeral service involves many choices, from music and readings to tributes and rituals. Use this guide to plan a service that truly reflects your loved one’s life.
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Step 4

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Memorials

Memorials offer a lasting tribute to your loved one. Whether it’s a headstone, plaque, or another form of commemoration, we can help you explore your options and make the right choice.
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Step 5

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Supporting a Charity

Many families choose to support a charity in memory of their loved one. We can guide you on how to organise donations, ensuring it’s done in a respectful way.
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Step 6

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Funeral Checklist

Stay organised with our simple checklist, which covers everything from selecting a funeral director to managing the finer details like flowers and transportation.
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[H2] Let us help you plan and prepare

The days following someone we know passing away can be overwhelming, with many decisions to make and paperwork to complete. We’ve created this section to guide you through some of the practicalities, from registering the death to arranging the funeral, remembering your loved one, and handling legal matters.
While everyone grieves differently, many people find comfort in focusing on these tasks, as it can provide a sense of purpose. No matter how you choose to proceed, we are here to offer support and ensure that everything is handled with care.
As funeral directors, our primary goal is to assist you in planning a service that feels meaningful and fitting, not just for you, but for everyone touched by the loss. Whether it’s navigating the necessary steps or helping you make the arrangements that best reflect your loved one’s life, we are here to guide you through the process with care and compassion.
We’ve aimed to make this guidance as thorough as possible, while acknowledging that every funeral is unique. If you have questions or need support beyond what is covered here, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly.

At Freeman Brothers, we offer three ways to arrange a funeral, depending on your preference and needs. You can meet with us in person at our office after a brief phone call, where we’ll go over the necessary details.
Alternatively, we offer a remote arrangement service where all information can be handled by phone or email, followed by a brief visit to sign paperwork, which comes at a reduced service charge.
We also offer the option of arranging the funeral via Zoom. This could be a fully remote meeting, involving several participants, or a hybrid option where some join in-person and others remotely. In either case, we’ll ensure everything is handled smoothly and respectfully.
Whatever method you choose, we kindly ask that you make an appointment in advance. This allows us to prepare for your visit and ensures that the necessary processes can be started before we meet. We want to make sure everything is ready so that your time with us is as efficient and helpful as possible.

[H2] How much does a funeral cost?

Use our tool to estimate the cost of a funeral, helping you to plan your farewell within your budget.

Cost estimation tool

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[H2] Frequently Asked Questions

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What should I do first when planning a funeral?

The first step in arranging a funeral is to contact a Funeral Director, such as Freeman Brothers, who can provide support and guidance throughout the process. While the death must eventually be registered, you can begin planning the funeral before registration is completed.
Freeman Brothers will help you personalise the service to reflect your loved one’s wishes and assist with other arrangements to ease the process during this difficult time.

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Who usually takes the responsibility of planning a funeral?

Funeral arrangements are often made by close family members, such as a spouse or civil partner, children, or siblings. If there is no immediate family, a close friend or legal executor may take on the responsibility. It’s important to communicate with those involved to ensure the wishes of the person who has passed away are honoured.

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What questions should I ask my Funeral Director?

When meeting with a funeral director, it may be helpful to ask about:
What are the available funeral options (burial, cremation, green funerals)?
Can I personalise the service with specific readings, music, or rituals?
What are the costs involved?
How do we handle paperwork?
Can you help us coordinate with other services, such as florists or charities?

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How can you plan your own funeral?

Planning your own funeral in advance can bring peace of mind to you and your family. Start by discussing your wishes with loved ones and a funeral director. You can choose the type of service, burial or cremation preferences, and any personal touches.

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How much budget should I set aside for a funeral?

Funeral costs vary depending on the type of service, location, and any extras like flowers or memorials. A typical funeral in the UK costs around £4,000–£5,000, but it can vary widely. It’s best to get an estimate from your funeral director to plan within your budget. At Freeman Brothers, we always provide a full estimate of the costs. You can also use our Funeral Cost Estimation Tool to get a clearer idea of potential costs during early stages of planning.

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Can I personalise a funeral service?

Yes, personalising the funeral is an important way to honour your loved one’s life. You can include meaningful elements like favourite music, personal readings, or rituals that reflect their values or beliefs. Your funeral director can help you explore various options to make the service unique and memorable.

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What documents do I need to provide for a funeral?

Your funeral director will tell you what documentation is required based on the chosen funeral service and, in some cases, the circumstances of the death.

[H2] Call us on:
01403 254590
or email mail@freemanbrothers.co.uk

Get in touch

[H2] Make a general enquiry

[H2] A simple and dignified option.
At Freeman Brothers, we understand that direct cremation may be the preferred choice for a variety of reasons, and our compassionate team is here to guide you through the process with care and understanding.
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[H2] What is Direct Cremation?
Direct cremation is a simple option where the person who has passed away is taken to the crematorium without a formal service or attendees. It’s an increasingly popular choice for those who prefer a no-fuss, private approach. After the cremation, the ashes can be returned to the family, allowing for a personalised memorial or gathering whenever and wherever you choose.
[H2] Why Choose Direct Cremation?
There are many reasons families choose direct cremation, including:
Simplicity: Direct cremation removes the need for a formal funeral service, offering a simple and respectful way to handle the cremation.
Flexibility: Without the time pressure of organising a formal service, families can arrange a memorial or gathering at a later date, allowing for a more personalised remembrance.
Cost-effectiveness: Direct cremation is often more affordable than traditional funerals, as it eliminates the need for a service, hearse, and other formal arrangements.
Personal preferences: Some individuals prefer a private, quiet approach without a formal service. Direct cremation allows for a dignified process while giving families the freedom to plan a memorial or event that reflects their loved one’s life.
[H2] How it Works
With direct cremation, we arrange for the cremation to take place at a local crematorium at a time of our choosing. No service is held, and no mourners are present. Once the cremation is complete, we return the ashes to the family, who can then decide how they wish to commemorate their loved one in their own time and way.
[H2] A Personalised Approach
Although direct cremation doesn’t include a formal service, it remains a dignified and personal process. At Freeman Brothers, we’re committed to treating every individual with the utmost care and respect. We ensure that all arrangements are handled with dignity, and we’re here to assist you in creating a memorial or event that honours your loved one in a meaningful way.

[H2] Related content

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Traditional Funerals

A time-honoured way to say goodbye, offering a structured, respectful service that reflects the life of your loved one.

Read more

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Green Funerals

Read more

[H3]
Direct Cremations – from £1,395

A simple, dignified option for families who prefer a cremation without a service, planned with care and respect at every step.

Read more

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Body Donation

Body donation is an incredibly generous act, offering the opportunity to contribute to medical research, education, and the advancement of science.

Read more

[H2] Frequently Asked Questions

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What is a direct cremation?

Direct cremation is a simple, no-service cremation where the person who has passed away is cremated without a formal funeral service or attendees. It allows families to receive the ashes afterwards, giving them the freedom to hold a personal memorial if they choose to.

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Can family members or friends attend the cremation?

No, in the UK direct cremations do not include a service or the option for mourners to attend.

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How much does direct cremation cost?

Direct cremation is typically more affordable than traditional funerals since it does not involve a service, hearse, or other formal arrangements. Our direct cremations start from £1,395.

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What happens to the ashes after the cremation?

After the cremation, the ashes are respectfully returned to the family in a simple container. From there, you can decide how and when you’d like to scatter, inter, or memorialise the ashes in a way that feels meaningful to you.

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Is it possible to have a memorial service after the direct cremation?

Yes, families often choose to hold a memorial or celebration of life at a later time, in a location that feels special or significant. Direct cremation gives you the flexibility to organise a memorial that reflects your loved one’s life, without the time pressure of a traditional funeral service.

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Do I need to provide any documents for a direct cremation?

Yes, as with any cremation, paperwork such as the Green Form and cremation application will be required. Freeman Brothers will guide you through all necessary documentation and ensure the process is straightforward and stress-free.

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What are the benefits of choosing direct cremation?

Direct cremation offers simplicity, affordability, and flexibility. It allows families to avoid the formality of a traditional funeral and make their own decisions about how to honour their loved one in a more personalised way.

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What about the direct cremation prices I see advertised on TV?

Unlike national direct cremation companies, we ensure all deceased persons rest at one of our four funeral homes. We handle arrangements personally, guiding you through paperwork face-to-face if preferred. Our cremations take place locally, and we provide transparency regarding the crematorium used and the return of ashes.
Freeman Brothers offers high standards of care, with options to tailor services to your needs. As members of leading industry associations, our facilities are regularly inspected to guarantee quality, which may not be true of national providers. We encourage customers to carefully compare services to understand both quality and cost differences.

[H2] Call us on:
01403 254590
or email mail@freemanbrothers.co.uk

Get in touch

[H2] Make a general enquiry

Deciding to pay for your own funeral in advance is an important decision and it can also be a very rewarding one.
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There are many reasons people choose to specify their arrangements before they die, including:
Ensuring they have a say in what happens once they have passed away
Wanting to lift the burden from family or friends
Not having anyone they feel can make arrangements for them
Financial reasons
At Freeman Brothers Funeral Directors, we understand that this can be a complicated decision for someone to make. To help, we have created four tiers that are structured to provide different levels of service, from a simple cremation to a more complex funeral, with a service in a place of worship if you wish.
We also offer a Tailormade Plan for those whose requirements do not fit into one of the tiered plans, and a Direct Cremation plan for customers who do not wish to have any attended funeral service included with their prepaid plan.
And you can be sure that, whichever of our plans you choose, our aim is always to provide an excellent level of service when the time finally comes. Your funds are kept in trust by an independent firm and we apply to them to pay the account once the funeral has taken place.
Information and advice on our products is available from each of our offices in Billingshurst, Crawley, Horsham and Hurstpierpoint.

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Prepaid Funeral Plan Brochures

Tiered Prepaid Funeral Plans

Value Declaration

Tiered Prepaid Funeral Plan Application

Direct Cremation Prepaid Plan

Tailormade Prepaid Funeral Plan

Complaints and FSCS

[H2] Prepaid Funeral Plan Brochures

[H2] Tiered Prepaid Funeral Plans

[H3] What does my plan include?
Advice and help when the arrangements have to be carried out
Bringing the deceased person into our care from within the mainland of Great Britain
Preparation and care of the deceased person
A coffin as specified
Provision of transport as specified
Staffing as specified
None of our tiers include the likely additional costs that may be incurred should death occur outside the mainland of Great Britain. Insurance policies, such as travel insurance, often include cover for such circumstances.
[H3] Other services included and excluded
In addition to the items included in all our products, these are the specific services included and excluded in each tier and our direct cremation product.
Direct Cremation - Unattended cremationBasic Tier CremationSimple Tier CremationStandard Tier CremationPrincipal Tier Burial* or Cremation
Coffin providedSimple foiled coffinSimple oak-veneered coffinOak-veneered coffinGood quality oak-veneered coffinHigh quality oak-veneered coffin
Transport providedHearsette or private ambulanceHearseHearse, which may be followed from an addressHearse, which may be followed from an addressHearse, which may be followed from an address
Staffing providedNecessary for coffin transport onlyA full team of conductor and required bearersA full team of conductor and required bearersA full team of conductor and required bearersA full team of conductor and required bearers
Visits to the Chapel of Rest (in working hours by appointment)
A limousine included
Administration of donations
Officiant’s fee
Crematorium feeFor a direct cremationFor a full serviceFor a full serviceFor a full serviceFor a full service
If burial, interment fee
Fees for a Place of Worship
A notice in the local paper
Orders of service includedUp to 50 copies
The ability to add items at the prevailing rate
Choice of date, time, and locationFreeman Brothers’ choiceAt a local crematorium* of your choice, date and time chosen by Freeman BrothersAt a local crematorium* of your choice, at a mutually convenient day and timeYour choice of location, date and time (travel fees will apply for out-of-area* funerals)Your choice of location, date and time (travel fees will apply for out-of-area* funerals)
*The tiers do not cover the purchase of the plot if this is required in the chosen place of burial. We recommend this is done as soon as is practical (ideally, prior to the death taking place) to avoid situations where the chosen burial place cannot accommodate further burials at the time of death. The purchase of a Prepaid Funeral Plan for burial in a location where plots cannot be purchased in advance is not a guarantee of availability in that place at the time of death. We suggest an alternative choice of location is specified in case of this eventuality.
Some of our tiers specify a ‘local crematorium’, which we define as The Surrey and Sussex Crematorium in Crawley, Worthing Crematorium, or either of the crematoria in Brighton. Some of our tiers enable you to choose the funeral location, this can be anywhere in mainland Great Britain, but travel fees for vehicles and staff will apply outside of our local area (which we define as Sussex, Surrey, and Brighton and Hove).
Costs which your representatives may choose to incur at the time of arranging your funeral, such as floral tributes, a reception, or monumental masonry (such as a headstone) are payable at that time and not included in any of our prepaid funeral plan tiers- although monumental masonry can be included in a tailormade plan- and the receipt of flowers is not included in our Direct Cremation Plan.

[H2] Value Declaration

Freeman Brothers wants to ensure that customers who choose to pay for their funeral in advance receive good value in comparison to buying an equivalent funeral at the point it is purchased.
Our prepaid funeral plans are priced to be cheaper, or cost the same as, an equivalent at-need funeral provided by Freeman Brothers.
To conclude, the following table shows a comparison between these costs for our tiered and direct cremation plans:
ProductPriceEquivalent at-need funeral priceDifference
Direct Cremation£1800£2068- £268
Basic£3350£3610- £260
Simple£3850£3990- £140
Standard£4300£4425- £125
Principal£4800£5230- £430
For our Tailormade Plans, one of our team will discuss your funeral requirements with you and your plan will be priced as an equivalent at-need funeral offered by Freeman Brothers at the time of purchase.
The money paid for a prepaid funeral plan is invested in the Freeman Brothers Funeral Trust. There is a charge of £199.00 if the plan is cancelled after 30 days or the moratorium period, for plans sold on an instalment basis.

[H2] Tiered Prepaid Funeral Plan Application

[H2] Direct Cremation Prepaid Plan

[H2] Tailormade Prepaid Funeral Plan

[H2] Complaints and FSCS

[H2] Call us on:
01403 254590
or email mail@freemanbrothers.co.uk

Get in touch

[H2] Make a general enquiry