Many families now ask for donations to a charity instead of, or as well as, flowers. It can be a way of honouring something the person cared about - or a charity that supported them at the end of their life, such as a hospice.
If you're arranging the funeral
Choosing a charity
It might be one the person supported, one connected to their illness, or the hospice or hospital that cared for them. Some families choose two.
Letting people know
Include it in the funeral notice, the order of service and any messages you send. Common wording:
- "Family flowers only, please. Donations, if desired, to [charity]."
- "No flowers, by request. Donations in [name]'s memory may be made to [charity]."
- "Flowers welcome, or donations to [charity] if preferred."
"Family flowers only" means only the closest family will send flowers, and everyone else is asked to donate instead.
Collecting donations
There are several ways:
Your funeral director
Can often collect donations and pass them on to the charity, with a list of who gave.
An online tribute page
A free page where people can donate and leave messages. These can stay open for months, and many families find the messages a comfort.
A collection at the funeral
Usually in a box or plate by the door as people leave.
If you're going to the funeral
Follow the family's wishes
If they've asked for no flowers, please don't send them.
Give however suits you
Online, by post, through the funeral director, or at the service.
There's no set amount
Give what you're comfortable with; every gift is appreciated.
Add Gift Aid
If you're a UK taxpayer and you're giving directly to the charity. It increases your donation at no cost to you.
Include the person's name
When you donate, so the charity can let the family know.
Faiths and flowers
Flowers aren't traditional at Jewish or Muslim funerals, and a donation to charity is often more appropriate. See funeral etiquette.
If you'd like to send flowers where they're welcome, see our guide to funeral flowers.
Reviewed by the Arranging a Funeral team - September 2026.
Common questions
What does "family flowers only" mean?
Only the closest family will send flowers. Everyone else is asked to donate to the named charity instead.
How do we collect donations?
Through the funeral director, an online tribute page, or a collection at the funeral.
How much should I donate?
There's no set amount. Give what you're comfortable with.
Should I add Gift Aid?
If you're a UK taxpayer giving directly to the charity, yes. It increases your donation at no cost to you.
Are flowers appropriate at every funeral?
No. Flowers aren't traditional at Jewish or Muslim funerals, and a donation to charity is often more appropriate.