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Support & advice

Support and guidance when someone dies

When a loved one passes, it is hard to know where to begin. These guides walk you through the practical first steps, Hindu and Sikh funeral rites, repatriation to India, grief support, funeral costs and etiquette — all written for British Asian families. Whenever you need us, call 01922 438503, 24/7, and Meera and the team will explain things gently, in English, Hindi or Punjabi.

What to do when someone dies

The practical first steps — who to call, how to register the death, and how we can take over the arrangements straight away.

Hindu funeral rites (antim sanskar)

Understanding the traditions of a Hindu funeral — antim sanskar / antyeshti — and how each rite is honoured with care.

Sikh funeral rites (antam sanskar)

The customs of a Sikh funeral — antam sanskar — including prayers, cremation and the role of the sangat.

Repatriation to India

Bringing a loved one home to India, or receiving someone from abroad — the paperwork, timings and how we manage it all for you.

Grief support

Grief takes its own time. These resources offer gentle support for you and your family, including where to find counselling.

Funeral costs & the DWP Funeral Expenses Payment

If you receive certain benefits, the Government’s DWP Funeral Expenses Payment may help with the cost. We can explain who is eligible and how to claim on form SF200.

Funeral etiquette

Attending a Hindu or Sikh funeral and unsure what to do? Simple guidance on what to wear, what to say and how to pay your respects.

Useful local contacts

The numbers families most often need in the West Midlands, gathered in one place. If you are unsure who to call, call us first on 01922 438503 and we will point you the right way.

Register offices

Wolverhampton01902 551234
Birmingham0121 675 1004

Coroners’ offices

Black Country (Wolverhampton, Walsall, Sandwell & Dudley)0845 352 7490
Birmingham & Solihull0121 303 4346

Financial & bereavement help

Dept. for Work & Pensions0345 606 0265
Cruse Bereavement Support01384 635599
Citizens Advice (Walsall)01922 700600
Citizens Advice (Birmingham)0121 683 6900

Numbers are provided for convenience and may change; please check before you rely on them.

Questions families often ask

Start by getting the death medically certified, then contact us on 01922 438503 — day or night. We can take your loved one into our care straight away and guide you through registering the death and notifying the right people, so nothing falls on you alone.
A Hindu funeral, or antim sanskar, centres on cremation, prayer and family involvement. Rites often include preparation of the body, darshan and viewing, a ceremony led by your priest, and the cremation itself. We arrange each part and follow your family’s and priest’s guidance.
A Sikh funeral, or antam sanskar, marks the soul’s return to Waheguru through prayer and cremation. It usually includes preparation of the body, a gurdwara service, the Ardas prayer and cremation. We coordinate with your gurdwara and granthi and handle the practical arrangements.
Repatriation means arranging for your loved one to travel from the UK to India. We handle the documentation, embalming where required, transport and coordination with the receiving family, so your loved one can be brought home with dignity. Call us to talk through the timings.
If you or your partner receive certain benefits — Universal Credit, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Pension Credit or Housing Benefit — you may qualify for the Government’s Funeral Expenses Payment towards the cost of a funeral. It is claimed from the Department for Work and Pensions (form SF200). Call us on 01922 438503 and we will explain whether you are likely to be eligible and help you apply.
White is the traditional colour of mourning at Hindu and Sikh funerals, so dress modestly in white or muted tones and cover your head where asked. A simple, sincere word of condolence is always welcome. Our etiquette guides explain what to expect at each service.
Grief takes its own time, and support helps. We can point you to counselling and bereavement services, including Cruse Bereavement Support and guidance on supporting children through loss. Call us on 01922 438503 and we will help you find the right support for your family.

Not sure where to start? Just call us

Whatever you need to know, we will explain it gently and clearly, in English, Hindi or Punjabi. We are here 24 hours a day.

Call 01922 438503 — 24/7