Vale Guides & Resources

Guides for every step

Practical, compassionate guidance — written by our family advisors for families facing one of life's hardest moments.

Guides available

What to Do If You Cannot Afford a Funeral

If you're worried about funeral costs, you're not alone. Discover government grants, payment plans, and other support available to families in the UK.

8 min read · 4 June 2026

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Guide

A Complete Guide to Planning a Meaningful Funeral

From initial decisions to the wake — everything you need to know to arrange a service that truly honours your loved one.

10 min read3 June 2026

Guide

Crafting Funeral Invitations: Guidance and Wording Examples

Practical guidance on how to share the news and invite others, with ready-to-use wording examples for formal notices and personal messages.

6 min read2 June 2026

Guide

Understanding Funeral Costs: A Guide to Budgeting and Planning

Understand what you are paying for — from funeral director fees to third-party disbursements — so you can make informed decisions.

7 min read1 June 2026

Guide

What To Do When Someone Dies

A clear, step-by-step guide to the essential administrative tasks following a death — from confirming the cause to registering and arranging the funeral.

6 min read28 May 2026

Support

What To Do When a Child Dies

A compassionate guide to the practical steps following the loss of a child or baby — from registration to government notifications and finding support.

8 min read25 May 2026

Explainer

Understanding 'Next of Kin': Rights, Responsibilities, and Legal Realities

What 'next of kin' actually means in the UK, what legal powers it does and doesn't carry, and how to protect your own wishes in advance.

7 min read22 May 2026

Guide

Managing an Estate: A Guide for Executors and Administrators

How to gather assets, settle debts, notify authorities, and distribute an estate — whether you're acting as executor or administrator.

9 min read19 May 2026

Explainer

A Guide to Understanding Inheritance Tax

The UK's IHT thresholds, rates, exemptions, and payment process explained clearly — essential reading when administering an estate.

8 min read16 May 2026

Guide

Lasting Power of Attorney: A Guide to Protecting Your Future

What an LPA is, the two types available, how to register one, and why setting one up now is one of the most important things you can do.

7 min read13 May 2026

Guide

Planning for Your Pet's Future: A Guide to Pet Care After Bereavement

How to ensure your pet is cared for if you pass away — from conversations with guardians to charity schemes and will provisions.

6 min read10 May 2026

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