How long does it take to bring my loved one into our care?

At Rounce Funeral Services, we understand how important it is that your loved one is looked after with care, dignity, and compassion from the very start. We can bring them into our care from anywhere in the UK, and the timing depends on where they are and when you need us.

From a Local Hospital (within 10 miles of our Worthing premises)

• If your loved one is in a local hospital, collection during our normal working hours (9 am – 4 pm, Monday to Friday) is included in our funeral service fee.

• Extra mileage beyond 10 miles may apply.

• To make things smoother, please contact the hospital bereavement team and let them know that Rounce Funeral Services are the funeral director. This ensures we have authorisation to arrange the transfer.

From Home, Care Home, or Hospice (within 10 miles)

• We can collect your loved one urgently at any time, including evenings, nights, and weekends.

• For local collections, we usually aim to arrive within around 2 hours.

• Extra mileage may apply if the location is outside our standard 10-mile radius.

From Further Afar (Greater London or elsewhere)

• We can arrange transfers from anywhere in the UK. Additional mileage, congestion, or ULEZ charges may apply depending on location.

What to expect when we arrive

• We’ll ask a few practical questions on the phone before we come, so we have the right equipment and can care for your loved one safely and respectfully.

• If you’d like your loved one dressed in their own clothes, we can collect their clothing and any personal items at the same time.

• For privacy and dignity, please keep doors and windows closed until we arrive.

Our team’s priority is to provide a sensitive, professional, and reassuring service, making sure your loved one is cared for safely from the moment we collect them until they are settled with us.

Where will my loved one be kept?

Your loved one will be cared for on our premises in Worthing, not in a warehouse off the motorway. From the moment they arrive, they are treated with care, dignity, and the same respect as if they were part of our family. Our Funeral Director Becky says “good morning” and “good night” to everyone in our care — small gestures that help maintain a sense of warmth and attention every day.

We provide a calm, private, and secure environment, so families can feel reassured that their loved one is looked after continuously.

Personalised Care and Comfort

• If you wish, we can play your loved one’s favourite music while they are with us.

• Families are welcome to provide clothing, fragrances, or personal items that reflect your loved one’s personality — we handle these with great care.

• For open coffin visits, we offer gentle wash and preparation services, which include careful washing, hair care, light makeup, and trimming of nails if desired. Female staff care for women and male staff care for men, ensuring dignity and sensitivity. Families are also welcome to participate in this intimate process if it feels meaningful.

• Keepsakes, such as locks of hair or fingerprints, can be taken if you wish.

A Natural, Respectful Approach

We do not offer embalming. Our natural care honours the deceased without invasive or harmful procedures. This approach is safe, dignified, and supported by the Natural Death Centre, reflecting our commitment to compassionate and environmentally conscious care.

Clothing and bedding are chosen to suit cremation or burial requirements and are handled with respect for both your loved one and the environment.

Visiting Your Loved One

Our private Chapel of Rest provides a tranquil space for family and friends to spend meaningful time together. Visits are by appointment to ensure privacy and uninterrupted reflection. You can visit as often as you like, and we provide a calm and supportive environment for these deeply personal moments.

At Rounce Funeral Services, we aim to make every step as gentle and comforting as possible, so you can feel confident your loved one is safe, respected, and cared for at all times.

Will my nearest and dearest be embalmed?

At Rounce Funeral Services, we do not embalm. Over the past 20 years, through more than 2,000 funerals, we have found embalming to be unnecessary when a loved one can be cared for in our refrigerated facilities on our premises.

Embalming is a toxic and invasive process, and we believe it is not needed in modern funeral care. Our approach is natural, dignified, and safe, giving you the reassurance that your loved one is looked after with respect.

Because we keep your loved one on our premises, families can visit them in our peaceful Chapel of Rest as often as they like, enjoying quiet, private time without worry — something that isn’t always possible when bodies are stored in off-site warehouses.

We are proud to be recommended by both the Good Funeral Guide and the Natural Death Centre for our commitment to natural, compassionate care.

In exceptional circumstances, such as transporting your loved one overseas, embalming may sometimes be necessary. If this is the case, we will discuss it fully with you, explaining why it is required and the options available.

Can my loved one be dressed in their own clothes?

Yes — we are happy for your loved one to be dressed in their own clothing. This can be a favourite outfit, a special piece of jewellery, or even a signature fragrance — anything that reflects who they were.

Our team includes male and female dressers who are trained to prepare your loved one with care, dignity, and respect. Gentlemen can have a shave and their hair washed and brushed. Ladies can have their hair washed, styled, and, if you wish, light make-up applied — you’re welcome to bring a favourite lipstick or nail polish.

We can also include personal scents, such as a beloved aftershave or perfume, which can be used on the day of the funeral to bring comfort as your loved one is carried into the chapel.

If you’d like, you are welcome to be present while your loved one is dressed. Our professional team will guide you through the process, and we can create a calm, meaningful environment with soft music and tealight candles. Many families find this experience to be a comforting, last act of love.

To help us, it’s useful to have a photo of your loved one on hand — it can guide the styling and help us capture their personality.

Can I place personal items and belongings with my loved one?

Yes — absolutely.

We believe it’s a beautiful gesture for your loved one to go on their final journey surrounded by cherished personal items and family mementoes. This is a tradition that stretches back thousands of years and can help bring comfort and connection to those saying goodbye.

You’re welcome to include things that reflect your loved one’s passions, hobbies, or personality. Families often choose items such as photographs, letters, favourite books, cuddly toys, small keepsakes, or even a favourite treat. In some cases, we have even included ashes of a beloved family pet.

If you visit our Chapel of Rest, you may place these items yourself. If you are unable to visit, our team will carefully place the items with respect, usually in your loved one’s hands or near their heart.

Important Considerations

For natural burials or cremations, we need to ensure that any items are biodegradable, non-toxic, and safe. Certain materials and objects are not permitted for safety or environmental reasons.

Items permitted in the coffin include:

• Letters, cards, and non-laminated photographs

• Small wooden or cardboard mementoes

• Flowers (unwrapped)

Items not permitted:

• Anything containing batteries or electronics (e.g., mobile phones, smartwatches, hearing aids, e-cigarettes)

• Glass or ceramic objects

• Large metal objects or tools

• Aerosol cans, alcohol bottles, or pressurized containers

• Medical implants such as pacemakers (these must be removed prior to cremation)

Clothing guidelines:

• Clothing should be made of natural fibres such as cotton, wool, linen, silk, or viscose

• Synthetic materials (polyester, PVC, nylon, fleece) are not allowed

• Shoes with heavy soles, metal buckles, or leather must be removed

• If suitable clothing isn’t available, we can wrap your loved one in a biodegradable cotton shroud

Our team will ensure that all personal items, clothing, and the coffin itself meet UK regulations and are handled with the utmost care, dignity, and respect.

By following these guidelines, your loved one can be surrounded by meaningful keepsakes while keeping the process safe, environmentally responsible, and deeply personal.

Where and when can I visit my loved one?

Once we have received your loved one’s clothing, our team will carefully dress them with dignity and respect. This usually takes place within a day or two of receiving the clothes. If it’s easier for you, clothing can be sent to us by recorded delivery.

When your loved one is ready, we’ll contact you to arrange a private visit at a time that suits you.

Visiting in our Chapel of Rest

Visits take place in our private Chapel of Rest, a calm, peaceful space designed to feel personal rather than clinical.

• The chapel can comfortably accommodate up to 17 family members or close friends

• Visits are by appointment, ensuring your time is unhurried and uninterrupted

• The atmosphere is gentle and reflective, with soft lighting and a quiet, respectful setting

If you wish, we can:

• Play your loved one’s favourite music

• Provide poems or readings, or you’re welcome to bring your own

• Arrange the visit as either closed coffin or open coffin, including the option to see your loved one or hold their hand

You are welcome to visit whether you have chosen a direct cremation, attended cremation, or burial.

Saying goodbye with a small, intimate service

For families who would like more than a quiet visit, we also offer the option of an intimate attended farewell in our chapel.

Up to 17 family and friends can gather for a personal service with music, a slideshow of photos to music, readings, and spoken words, followed by a prompt, non-attended direct cremation if that is your chosen arrangement. This allows families to say a meaningful goodbye without the formality or pressures of a busy crematorium.

A gentle, supportive experience

Many families tell us that spending time with their loved one — whether through a quiet visit or a small, private service — is an important and comforting part of the grieving process. We’ll guide you gently and explain all options, so you can choose what feels right for you.

If you’re unsure what you might want, or would like to talk it through, we’re always here to help.

Where will the funeral service be held?

The location of the funeral service is entirely your choice, and we’ll help you explore what feels right for you and your family.

Common options include:

Our private Chapel of Rest (up to 17 people)

For families who want a calm, personal farewell without the pressures of a busy crematorium, we offer an intimate attended service in our own Chapel of Rest.

Up to 17 family members or close friends can gather for a quiet, meaningful ceremony with music, readings and personal touches. This is often chosen alongside a direct cremation, allowing families to say goodbye in a peaceful, unhurried setting.

A local crematorium

We regularly conduct attended funeral services at crematoriums throughout Worthing and across East and West Sussex, with full support before, during and after the service.

A church or place of worship

If faith is important to you or your loved one, we can arrange services in churches or other places of worship, working closely with ministers and officiants.

Burial or natural burial grounds

We arrange traditional burials in local cemeteries, as well as natural burials at woodland and eco burial grounds such as Clayton Wood and sites across the South Downs.

A memorial service after a direct cremation

Some families prefer a simple direct cremation followed by a memorial service at a later date. This can take place in a church, a private venue, or another meaningful location.

Alternative venues

More families are now choosing non-traditional settings, such as hotels or countryside venues that can accommodate both the service and a gathering afterwards. We’re happy to talk through what’s possible and help make arrangements.

Travel and flexibility

We regularly conduct funerals across East and West Sussex and are happy to travel within a 50-mile radius, or further afield by arrangement.

Whatever you choose, our role is to guide you gently, explain your options clearly, and help create a farewell that truly reflects your loved one’s life.

Can I visit your funeral home before arranging a funeral?

Yes — we would be more than happy to welcome you.

We understand that arranging a funeral can feel overwhelming, and visiting our premises can help you feel more comfortable and confident in the care we provide. You are welcome to see both our public areas and, if you wish, our behind-the-scenes spaces, so you can understand how we care for your loved one with dignity and respect.

Our funeral home has been inspected and approved by Worthing Borough Council as well as SAIF, our professional governing body, and we are proud to maintain the highest standards of care, safety, and professionalism.

Visiting us doesn’t commit you to anything — it’s simply an opportunity to ask questions, see our facilities, and feel assured that your loved one will be looked after as if they were part of our own family.

Can I choose my preferred date and time for the funeral?

Yes — you can absolutely choose a date that works best for you and your family. We always aim to accommodate your preferences while also taking into account practical considerations.

Direct Cremations:

For a direct cremation, these usually take place around 10 days to 2 weeks after your loved one comes into our care. While you can select your preferred date, the exact time of the cremation is set by the crematorium, and they usually conduct services in the morning. This ensures the process is handled smoothly and respectfully.

Attended Funerals:

For an attended funeral, we usually arrange the service 2–3 weeks after your loved one is with us. This gives families time to prepare the personal touches that make the service meaningful, such as music, readings, photos, service sheets, and eulogies. It also allows time to organise the Wake, including choosing a venue and arranging food.

Shorter Time Frames:

If you need a funeral sooner, we can often accommodate this, especially for simpler ceremonies. However, planning on a shorter timeline can make arranging music, readings, photos, and other details more intense. We’ll support you fully and help make it as smooth and meaningful as possible.

Who will conduct the funeral ceremony?

We work with a trusted selection of experienced Funeral Celebrants, Vicars, Ministers, Priests, and other religious leaders. After meeting with you and your family to understand your values and the essence of your loved one, we’ll match you with someone who will put you at ease and help share meaningful stories and memories.

If you have a specific celebrant in mind—or a family friend who would like to conduct the service—we’re happy to accommodate your request.

Typically, the celebrant or religious leader will meet with you at home, hear your stories, and view photographs. This helps them capture your loved one’s personality and ensures the service reflects their life and legacy. They can lead as much or as little of the ceremony as you wish—from the full service, including eulogy and readings, to just the welcome, committal, and closing words.

Celebrants can also recommend poems, music, or assist with script writing, making sure the service flows smoothly. Some can provide additional bereavement support to family members, if required.

Services led by our Funeral Directors

For families seeking a simpler or brief service, our Funeral Directors can conduct a short ceremony—reading a poem, sharing a few words, or guiding a graveside or crematorium committal.

Intimate Attended Direct Cremation

For those choosing a direct cremation, our 17-seater Chapel of Rest offers an intimate, private service. This includes unlimited time for the ceremony, with music, a slideshow of photos to music, to a simple eulogy, a poem, and words of comfort—allowing family and close friends to say their final goodbyes in a calm, personal setting.

How long is a funeral ceremony?

The length of a funeral ceremony depends on the type of venue you choose and the type of service you would like to hold.

Private Venues (e.g., Barn, Hotel, Village Hall, or Community Centre)

If you select a private venue, there is more flexibility regarding the length of the service. You can plan a full, unhurried ceremony, including music, readings, eulogies, and personal tributes.

Religious Venues (e.g., Church, Cemetery, or Churchyard)

For a church or other religious venue, there are no strict time constraints. Typically, a service lasts about 1 hour, followed by a few words of committal and comfort at the graveside or crematorium.

Crematorium Services

At a crematorium, time slots are usually 40 minutes, which accommodates a simple, dignified 30-minute service for up to 40–50 guests. This can include a eulogy, slideshow of photos, a poem, and up to three pieces of music.

If you expect more than 50 guests or want a more personalised service with additional music, readings, or slideshows, booking a double slot is recommended to ensure a smooth, unrushed farewell.

Intimate Attended Direct Cremation at Our Chapel

For families choosing direct cremation, our 17-seater Chapel of Rest offers a private, intimate service with no time limit. This includes music, a slideshow of photos to music, a simple eulogy or words of comfort, a poem, and the opportunity to say personal goodbyes. The service is flexible and can be led by a Funeral Director or Celebrant, allowing you to focus fully on your memories and farewell without time pressure.

Typical Funeral Service Format (for larger venues or attended cremations)

• The Funeral Director accompanies the hearse to the chapel entrance.

• Gathering music plays as mourners take their seats.

• Entry music as pallbearers bring your loved one into the chapel.

• Welcome and opening words by the celebrant.

• Eulogy or life story is shared.

• Slideshow of photos set to music or reflective music plays.

• Quiet reflection period.

• Committal.

• A poem is read.

• Words of comfort are offered.

• Closing remarks and exit music as mourners say their farewells.

This structure ensures that your loved one’s service is conducted with dignity, respect, and care, whether in a large venue, crematorium, or our intimate chapel.

Can anyone be a pallbearer, and how is the coffin carried?

Yes — anyone can be a pallbearer if they wish, and many families find this to be a deeply meaningful way to be involved. We always encourage loved ones to take part, but only if it feels right for them.

On the day, your Funeral Director will meet with the pallbearers at the church, crematorium, or venue and gently talk everyone through what will happen. There’s no expectation that you’ve done this before — we’ll guide you step by step, making sure everyone feels comfortable and supported.

Usually, there are four or six pallbearers, although in some cases we may recommend eight or ten, depending on the coffin. We carefully position people so that carrying feels balanced and manageable, taking height and comfort into account. Your Funeral Director will also have checked the route in advance, noting any steps, narrow doorways, or other practical considerations, so everything runs smoothly.

At a crematorium, the coffin is placed on a catafalque, which is a beautifully finished wooden platform. In churches or other venues, we provide wooden trestles for the coffin to rest on. Before the service begins, we’ll ensure everything is carefully positioned, including any flowers, photographs, or personal items you’ve chosen to place with your loved one.

Once the coffin is in position, the pallbearers will be guided to stand evenly around it. On the Funeral Director’s quiet instruction, they will bow together as a mark of respect before being shown to their reserved seats.

Children are also very welcome to be involved if they would like to be. While carrying the coffin may not always be suitable, they can walk alongside the Funeral Director, carry a flower, or take part in another gentle way. We’re always happy to help create a role that feels special and appropriate for them.

Carrying a loved one’s coffin can feel daunting, but it is also a powerful and loving act of farewell. Our role is to make sure you feel supported, calm, and confident throughout — allowing the moment to be dignified, meaningful, and remembered with pride.