Bespoke Funeral Services

MLS Independent Funeral Directors is a family-owned and run business with three generations of the family offering both female and male qualified funeral directors that has been serving the people of Ormskirk, Aughton, Burscough and surrounding areas for over 27 years.

Independent Funeral Directors

We are a firm of Independent Family Funeral Directors. They, together with our highly trained staff, all work to the highest possible standards to provide a genuine caring and professional service. Our most significant source of funerals is a recommendation.

As we are not part of a large conglomerate with corporate headquarters and highly paid executives, we can supply a first-class service at reasonable costs; we pride ourselves on quality above all. We have a traditional approach, though each funeral will be different as we are very much guided by those requesting our services. We will do our very best to carry out your wishes in full.

We pride ourselves on providing our clients with a personal and attentive service of the highest standard so, for whatever reason you require our help, you can rest assured of our best attention at all times.

In the event of a death, a member of our staff is available to take your call 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year.

Please call us today on 01695 424 888 you can also use our contact form to forward your details for more information.

Funeral Plans

A funeral plan allows you to pay upfront or in monthly instalments for your funeral, so your relatives don't have to cover the additional costs themselves. However, you should carefully consider reading the fine print, so you know what your funeral plan either includes or excludes.

Therefore, carefully check the full pre-paid funeral plans before signing details. There are two main ways you can purchase your pre-paid funeral plans. You can either make your purchase from a dedicated pre-paid service provider.

You can also buy similar plans from a local funeral director. You should always check to see if you will incur any cancellation charges should you decide to cancel your policy.

Pre-paid Funeral plans allow you to select every funeral detail from how your body is prepared, to the viewing arrangements.

If you desire there shall be an open-casket or a closed casket service. The type and style of coffin and the entire funeral service can be picked out by the client.

You can decide to be cremated or buried. If there was a special kind of flower that you liked, you could determine the type of memorial card and book for your loved ones to receive. Your chosen funeral director will usually take note of all your final wishes.

Prepaid Funeral Plans

Memorial Headstones

Choosing a suitable memorial for your loved one can be a difficult decision to make. A memorial is a lasting tribute and one that will last for generations. We will be more than happy to help guide you through this emotional time and help you create a memorial of eternal beauty.

We will help you decide what type of stone you prefer. Take time choosing the wording.

We understand this takes time and needs to be a fitting tribute to your loved one. It might be that your loved one had a specific memorial in mind and you are carrying out their final wishes.

It is also worth contacting the cemetery where your loved one has been laid to rest. Some cemeteries will only allow specific sizes and shapes.

There might also be regulations on the type or colour of stone to be used. We will be happy to help and advise you on any restrictions that your chosen cemetery have in place.

Choosing Memorials

Chapels of Rest

A chapel of rest is a room or building, often attached to or within a funeral home, where families and loved ones can come and view someone who has died before their funeral takes place.

We have chapels of rest in Aughton and Burscough within our new funeral home's.

We believe that by having the availability of our caring female and male staff has been particularly welcomed by many bereaved families.

When you have contacted us, we will help you throughout your time of need; this allows them to build a relationship with you. Our staff are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Chapels of Rest

Frequently asked questions

At MLS Independent Funeral Directors, we understand how important it is to feel informed in what is a sensitive and difficult time for any family. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we hear.

If your question still goes unanswered please do not hesitate to get in touch. Our independent funeral directors are on hand to answer any questions you may have.

What services do independent funeral directors provide?

Independent funeral directors offer a range of professional services to help families through the process of organising a funeral. These funeral services usually include arranging the burial or cremation, providing guidance on service options such as location and funeral ceremony type, and offering various coffin or urn choices. They also assist with transporting the deceased, preparing necessary documents, and coordinating with clergy or officiants. We can ensure a respectful, peaceful and dignified farewell by performing these tasks.

How do independent funeral directors differ from larger funeral chains?

Independent funeral directors often provide a more personal and tailored service compared to larger funeral chains. They are usually family-run and operate within the local area, allowing them to offer a more compassionate and understanding approach. Their smaller size often means they can accommodate specific requests and quickly adapt to family needs, offering flexibility that larger chains may be unable to provide.

Can independent funeral directors help with both burial and cremation services?

Yes, independent funeral directors can assist with both burial and cremation services. They offer guidance on the options available, helping families decide which is best suited to their needs and preferences. Experienced funeral directors can organise all necessary arrangements for either option, ensuring a smooth, compassionate and respectful process while considering the wishes of the deceased and their family.

How much does it cost to arrange a funeral with an independent funeral director?

The cost of arranging a funeral with an independent funeral director can vary depending on the services chosen, location, and specific requirements. Essential services like transportation and documentation might have lower fees. However, additional elements like the perfect floral arrangements, specific coffins, or unique service requests or tributes can also increase costs. It's best to contact them directly for a detailed breakdown and tailored quote based on your individual needs.

Can I pre-arrange and pay for my funeral in advance?

You can pre-arrange and pay for your funeral in advance with an independent funeral director. This is often referred to as a funeral plan and allows you to make sensitive decisions about your funeral service ahead of time. By doing this, you can ensure your wishes are met and alleviate some of your loved ones' financial details and funeral planning burdens. We do all we can to make the process easier.

What types of coffins or urns can independent funeral directors provide?

Independent funeral directors offer a variety of coffins and urns that perfectly suit different preferences and budgets. Options typically range from beautiful traditional wood and metal to amazing eco-friendly materials like bamboo or wicker. Urns may vary from simple designs to more personalised or decorative options, ensuring you can find something that honours the memory of your loved one in a fitting way.

How can independent funeral directors support in creating a unique and personalised service?

Independent funeral directors support by listening to your wishes and offering recommendations to personalise the service. They can help select meaningful elements such as beautiful music, readings, and floral arrangements or organise special tributes. By understanding the preferences, desires and personalities of the deceased and their family, they can create a compassionate, memorable and unique celebration of life they deserve.

Do independent funeral directors offer eco-friendly or green funeral options?

Yes, local funeral directors often offer eco-friendly or green funeral options. These may include biodegradable coffins, natural burial sites, and funeral services that minimise environmental impact. By choosing these options, families can honour their loved ones while respecting the environment, ensuring a mindful approach that aligns with eco-conscious values. Our aim at MLS Independent Funeral Directors is to ensure your loved ones feel their beliefs and stances are well-represented, even in death.

Can independent funeral directors assist with paperwork and legal requirements?

Teams of independent funeral directors are equipped to assist with all legal requirements and necessary paperwork following a death. They guide families through the process of registering the death, obtaining permits, and organising documentation for burial or cremation. This support ensures families can focus on their loved ones while handling all administrative aspects professionally.

Do independent funeral directors offer grief support or counselling?

Many independent funeral directors offer grief support or can recommend local counselling services to help families cope with their loss. While they may not provide direct counselling services themselves, they often work closely with professionals in the local area who specialise in bereavement support in a sensitive manner. At MLS Independent Funeral Directors, we are committed to connecting families to the help they need during painful times and funerals.

How soon after a death should I contact a funeral director?

Contacting a funeral director member or funeral home as soon as possible after a death occurs is advisable. Early contact allows the funeral director to assist with immediate arrangements, such as transporting the deceased and starting the funeral planning process.

This support helps ensure that all necessary steps are taken care of promptly, alleviating some of the immediate stress and uncertainty for the family. Rest assured, everything is conducted with complete dignity, and all suggestions are considered. Call us today for an appointment. We pay attention to all the details and requests you make.

What payment options are available for funeral services?

Independent funeral directors typically offer a range of payment plans to suit different preferences and budgets. These may include full upfront payment, instalments, or pre-paid funeral plans. Families are encouraged to discuss payment terms and paperwork directly with MLS Independent Funeral Directors to find an approach that aligns with their financial situation, ensuring a transparent and manageable solution.

Ready to talk?

If you would like to find out more information about the help and advice that we can offer you during the difficult times that lead up to a funeral, please call our friendly staff today on 01695 424 888 or 01704 891 555 or you can use our contact form to forward your details.