Public health funerals in the South East of England

Mcgowan, Teresa, Falkingham, Jane and Thiehoff, Stephanie , Dey, Becki (ed.) (2026) Public health funerals in the South East of England (ESRC Centre for Population Change Connecting Generations Policy Briefing Series, 89) ESRC Centre for Population Change 4pp.

Abstract

Burial and cremation are distinctly human practices, present since the earliest societies. These rituals reflect how communities interpret kin, faith and belonging. As those perceptions change, funeral practices change too, offering a clear signal of wider social change. This study focuses on funerals arranged by councils and NHS trusts when kin are either not available, unable, or unwilling to provide a funeral for the deceased. Poverty is a major reason behind the need for public health funerals. Increasingly, while the deceased do have next of kin, these relatives cannot afford the cost of a funeral. Our research shows that public health funerals are most common in deprived urban areas and are more likely to involve older male individuals. Current demographic trends suggest demand for public health funerals is likely to rise. Changes in family structures and ongoing economic pressure mean more people may die without anyone able to arrange their funeral. This has cost implications for councils and NHS trusts, which need to be recognised in line with existing Good Practice Guidance when local government structures are reviewed.

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Contributors

Author: Teresa Mcgowan

Author: Jane Falkingham

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