Q: Why choose Robert A. Drew & Son?

We are a long-established, family-run funeral home , serving families across Willerby, Hull and the East Riding since 1960 . Now led by the third generation of the Drew family, we are known for personal care, clear guidance and dignity at every stage. Your loved one remains in our care at all times, and every decision is handled with respect, transparency and compassion — never pressure.

Q: What Does SAIF Membership Mean to Families?

SAIF — the National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors — represents independent, family-owned funeral homes across the UK. As a SAIF member , Robert A. Drew & Son meets and maintains recognised professional and ethical standards designed to protect families at a vulnerable time.

Q: What This Means for You and Your Family

By choosing a SAIF member, you can be assured that: We are independently owned and family-run — not part of a large corporate chain • Your loved one remains in our care at all times , unless you instruct otherwise • We follow a strict code of professional conduct • Our standards of care are regularly reviewed and assessed • Our team receives ongoing professional training and bereavement awareness education • All services are delivered with dignity, respect and transparency • You have access to independent support and guidance should concerns ever arise SAIF membership demonstrates our commitment to placing families first — offering personal care, honesty and accountability at every stage. In simple terms, it means your loved one is in safe hands — and your wishes will always be respected.

Q: How many pieces of music are usually included?

Most services include three pieces , such as for entry, reflection, committal and departure — though this is entirely flexible.

Question 1

Why choose Robert A. Drew & Son?

Accepted Answer

We are a long-established, family-run funeral home, serving families across Willerby, Hull and the East Riding since 1960. Now led by the third generation of the Drew family, we are known for personal care, clear guidance and dignity at every stage.

Your loved one remains in our care at all times, and every decision is handled with respect, transparency and compassion — never pressure.

Question 2

What if I have a question or concern?

Accepted Answer

We welcome open conversation. If you ever have a question, uncertainty or concern, we will listen carefully and respond promptly. Our door — and our phone line — are always open.

Question 3

What Does SAIF Membership Mean to Families?

Accepted Answer

SAIF — the National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors — represents independent, family-owned funeral homes across the UK.

As a SAIF member, Robert A. Drew & Son meets and maintains recognised professional and ethical standards designed to protect families at a vulnerable time.

Question 4

What This Means for You and Your Family

Accepted Answer

By choosing a SAIF member, you can be assured that:

We are independently owned and family-run — not part of a large corporate chain
• Your loved one remains in our care at all times, unless you instruct otherwise
• We follow a strict code of professional conduct
• Our standards of care are regularly reviewed and assessed
• Our team receives ongoing professional training and bereavement awareness education
• All services are delivered with dignity, respect and transparency
• You have access to independent support and guidance should concerns ever arise

SAIF membership demonstrates our commitment to placing families first — offering personal care, honesty and accountability at every stage.

In simple terms, it means your loved one is in safe hands — and your wishes will always be respected.

Question 5

How many pieces of music are usually included?

Accepted Answer

Most services include three pieces, such as for entry, reflection, committal and departure — though this is entirely flexible.

Question 6

What music formats are accepted?

Accepted Answer

Most venues accept:
• Digital audio files (MP3)
• Clearly labelled CDs
• USB memory sticks
• Live musicians (by arrangement)

We ask that music is provided at least 72 hours before the service to allow testing and preparation.

Question 7

What is embalming?

Accepted Answer

Embalming is a professional procedure that helps preserve appearance and allows a natural presentation, particularly if there is a delay before the service or if visits to the Chapel of Rest are planned.

Question 8

Is embalming compulsory?

Accepted Answer

No. Embalming is always optional. Your funeral arranger will explain when it may be recommended and answer any questions you may have.

Question 9

Can we visit without embalming?

Accepted Answer

In many cases, yes — especially when the funeral takes place soon after death. We will advise based on timing and individual circumstances.

Question 10

Who carries out embalming?

Accepted Answer

Only qualified professionals carry out this care, and your loved one remains in our care throughout.

Question 11

Do you arrange cemetery or churchyard plots?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We liaise with local authorities and burial grounds, complete all required documentation and can assist with memorial arrangements.

Question 12

Can there be a service before the burial?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many families choose to hold a service in a church or chapel before proceeding to the graveside.

Question 13

Can family members carry the coffin?

Accepted Answer

Yes. This is welcomed if families wish. Alternatively, our professional pallbearers can assist.

Question 14

How do I choose between burial and cremation?

Accepted Answer

There is no right or wrong choice. We will explain each option clearly, including practical considerations, costs and personal preferences, helping you decide what feels right for your family and your loved one.

Question 15

Can a cremation include a full service?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A cremation can include a full service at a crematorium, church, chapel or another venue. Services may include music, readings, hymns, tributes and personal touches.

Question 16

What is a direct (unattended) cremation?

Accepted Answer

A direct cremation is a simple cremation with no service and no attendance on the day. Ashes are returned to the family, who may choose to hold a memorial at a later time. Full details and pricing are available on our dedicated Direct Cremation page.

Question 17

What is a woodland or natural burial?

Accepted Answer

A natural or woodland burial takes place in a peaceful, natural setting and usually involves biodegradable coffins and environmentally conscious practices. We can advise on suitable local burial grounds and explain what is permitted.

Question 18

Do we have to hold a service at the crematorium?

Accepted Answer

No. A service can be held elsewhere before cremation, or a memorial can take place at a later date.

Question 19

Can ashes be divided or shared?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Ashes may be placed into multiple urns or into keepsakes such as jewellery or glass memorials.

Question 20

Where can ashes be scattered?

Accepted Answer

Ashes may be scattered in cemeteries, gardens of remembrance, natural burial grounds, or on private land with permission. We will guide you through the options and any permissions needed.

Question 21

What vehicles do you provide?

Accepted Answer

We provide a dignified Jaguar hearse and Jaguar limousines as part of our in-house fleet. Specialist options, such as horse-drawn hearses or alternative vehicles, can also be arranged.

Question 22

Can the cortege take a special route?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many families choose to pass a former home, workplace or meaningful location. We will plan this respectfully and carefully.

Question 23

Can you arrange flowers for us?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work closely with trusted local florists to arrange traditional, seasonal or bespoke floral tributes.

Question 24

What happens to the flowers afterwards?

Accepted Answer

Flowers may be taken home, placed at the graveside, or donated to local care homes or hospitals, if you wish.

Question 25

How do I choose between burial and cremation?

Accepted Answer

There is no right or wrong choice. We will explain each option clearly, including practical considerations, costs and personal preferences, helping you decide what feels right for your family and your loved one.

Question 26

Can a cremation include a full service?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A cremation can include a full service at a crematorium, church, chapel or another venue. Services may include music, readings, hymns, tributes and personal touches.

Question 27

What is a direct (unattended) cremation?

Accepted Answer

A direct cremation is a simple cremation with no service and no attendance on the day. Ashes are returned to the family, who may choose to hold a memorial at a later time. Full details and pricing are available on our dedicated Direct Cremation page.

Question 28

What is a woodland or natural burial?

Accepted Answer

A natural or woodland burial takes place in a peaceful, natural setting and usually involves biodegradable coffins and environmentally conscious practices. We can advise on suitable local burial grounds and explain what is permitted.

Question 29

How do I choose between burial and cremation?

Accepted Answer

There is no right or wrong choice. We will explain each option clearly, including practical considerations, costs and personal preferences, helping you decide what feels right for your family and your loved one.

Question 30

Can a cremation include a full service?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A cremation can include a full service at a crematorium, church, chapel or another venue. Services may include music, readings, hymns, tributes and personal touches.

Question 31

What is a direct (unattended) cremation?

Accepted Answer

A direct cremation is a simple cremation with no service and no attendance on the day. Ashes are returned to the family, who may choose to hold a memorial at a later time. Full details and pricing are available on our dedicated Direct Cremation page.

Question 32

What is a woodland or natural burial?

Accepted Answer

A natural or woodland burial takes place in a peaceful, natural setting and usually involves biodegradable coffins and environmentally conscious practices. We can advise on suitable local burial grounds and explain what is permitted.

FAQ

Robert A. Drew & Son — Guidance, Clarity & Support When You Need It Most

Our Approach & Standards of Care

Why choose Robert A. Drew & Son?

What if I have a question or concern?

Types of Funeral Services

How do I choose between burial and cremation?

Can a cremation include a full service?

What is a direct (unattended) cremation?

What is a woodland or natural burial?

Embalming — Your Questions Answered

What is embalming?

Is embalming compulsory?

Can we visit without embalming?

Who carries out embalming?

Cremation Services — FAQs

Do we have to hold a service at the crematorium?

Can ashes be divided or shared?

Where can ashes be scattered?

Burial Services — FAQs

Do you arrange cemetery or churchyard plots?

Can there be a service before the burial?

Can family members carry the coffin?

Funeral Fleet & Processions

What vehicles do you provide?

Can the cortege take a special route?

Floral Tributes

Can you arrange flowers for us?

What happens to the flowers afterwards?

Music & Personalisation

How many pieces of music are usually included?

What music formats are accepted?

Practical Questions

How do I choose between burial and cremation?

Can a cremation include a full service?

What is a direct (unattended) cremation?

What is a woodland or natural burial?

After the Funeral

How do I choose between burial and cremation?

Can a cremation include a full service?

What is a direct (unattended) cremation?

What is a woodland or natural burial?

What Does SAIF Membership Mean to Families?

What This Means for You and Your Family

You Are Not Alone

Robert A. Drew & Son Ltd

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