Plan for the future - and help loved ones

Being prepared for your own death is an essential part of life. Here are simple steps to take

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"The first step to helping your family, and also ensuring your wishes for your funeral are followed, is to write them down," says Executive Director of Red Apple Law (www.myredap-plelaw.com), Angie Wilson.

Think about what you would want in a service - and let your family know what you don't want as well. Talk through the ceremony with your loved ones.

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"Dying is actually a fairly expensive business," says Angie. "And even the most simple of funerals can cost thousands of pounds."