The council has a policy for the management of its cemeteries, based upon local authorities cemeteries order 1977 (LACO) and current best practice.

What the fees cover

The Cemetery fees cover a range of cemetery services including Interments, the issue and transfer of the Exclusive Right of Burial (ERB) and the Right to erect a Memorial.

How fees are paid

On many occasions arrangements are made by the Funeral Director or Memorial Mason. If that is the case, payment will normally be made by the Funeral Director/Memorial Mason on behalf of the bereaved.

On other occasions, if you have dealt directly with your Community Hub (Abergavenny,  Caldicot, Chepstow,  Usk or Monmouth) you will be advised of the possible methods of payment.

Fees are set annually.

If you cannot afford a funeral

Sometimes a family member may die and the family may not have the means to pay for the funeral.

In the first instance, you may wish to establish if you are eligible for the government Funeral Expenses Payment Get help with funeral costs (Funeral Expenses Payment): How it works – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

In some situations the Council may be required to take responsibility for making the funeral arrangements. This is known as a Section 46 Funeral. If you wish to consider this option then you must contact the Cemeteries Officer 01873 735852, cemeteries@monmouthshire.gov.uk prior to making any arrangements with a Funeral Director.