Special arrangements for babies and children
Losing a child is the most painful experience a family can face. We will help you consider every choice, with the support and advice you would expect from experienced, compassionate professionals.
No charge For babies under 24 weeks and children up to 17
Nothing is too much trouble
Everybody at Houghtons understands the importance of unity at such a devastating time. Over the following days we will help you give careful consideration to the choices available and to planning the funeral.
Everything we can do, we will do to make visits to our chapels of rest as peaceful and healing for your family as possible. Your child is your child no matter how old or young, and you will want to take care of them in your own way for as long as possible. We will always try to meet your family's needs, whether in our chapels or in your home.
Our services are free of charge
For the funerals of those under 24 weeks, and babies and children up to 17 years, we do not charge for our services.
The Children's Funeral Fund
Under the Government's Children's Funeral Fund for England, which came into effect on 23 July 2019, the fees and expenses for burials and cremations of a child under 18, or a baby stillborn after the 24th week of pregnancy, are met by Government funding. It is available to all families regardless of income and is not means tested.
Our local burial and cremation authorities in Warrington, Halton and St Helens claim the fees directly from the central fund. Because Houghtons have never charged for children's funerals, the £300 allowance that could be paid to us from the fund is passed back to the family, to put towards something in their child's memory or to be gifted to a nominated charity.
Baby Loss Certificate
Babies stillborn before 24 weeks could not previously be officially registered, which many grieving parents told us left them feeling their loss had not been acknowledged. The voluntary Baby Loss Certificate scheme, launched on 22 February 2024, formally recognises the impact of losing a baby during pregnancy.
Baby gardens in Warrington
Warrington has three beautiful baby gardens, each with its own character and feeling. A leaflet with details is available to download.
Frequently asked questions
Do Houghtons charge for a child's funeral?
No. For the funerals of babies under 24 weeks and children up to 17 years we do not charge for our services.
What is the Children's Funeral Fund?
The Children's Funeral Fund for England meets the fees and expenses for burials and cremations of children under 18, and of babies stillborn after 24 weeks of pregnancy. It is available to all families regardless of income and is not means tested.