Under Section 46 of the Public Health (Control of Disease) Act 1984 (legislation.gov.uk) public health funerals are provided by local authorities for people who have passed away and there is no one able, or willing, to make the necessary arrangements for a funeral. They are designed to protect public health and are important in ensuring that all individuals are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their circumstances
When a person dies within the borough of Hertsmere and there is no one available to take responsibility for the funeral, Hertsmere Borough Council may arrange the funeral.
If the deceased passed away outside of Hertsmere's boundary, the funeral arrangements will be the responsibility of the local authority where they died; even if they had lived within Hertsmere.
If a person dies in hospital, then arrangements for burial or cremation are usually the responsibility of the health authority.
Further information:
If you require further information or guidance on requesting a Public Health Funeral you can contact Environmental Health.
