“Wherever you are, death will find you out. Even if you are in towers built up strong and high.” (al-Nisaa 4:78). This verse from the Quran reminds us that death is an inevitable reality that we all must face, regardless of our gender, ethnicity, age, social status, or beliefs. As Muslims, it is essential that we prepare ourselves for death by living a life in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

Arrahman Community and Educational Trust, formerly known as East Africa Swahili Community, has recognized the importance of preparing for death and has been undertaking the task of providing a funeral fund for its members for over fifteen years. The aim is to ensure that there are sufficient funds available to cover the expenses of burying a deceased member of the community.

Membership of the funeral fund is open to all Muslims residing in Slough, provided they agree to the terms and conditions set up by Arrahman Community and Educational Trust. The membership fees for the funeral fund range from £10 per month for a single person without a family to £15 per month for those with families. Although these membership fees do not correspond with the actual costs of funeral services in Slough and the UK, which can be as much as £3500, our collective responsibility and commitment to paying the membership fees enables us as a community to provide a dignified burial service for our Muslim brothers and sisters.

Therefore, we urge every Muslim brother and sister to consider joining the membership scheme for the funeral fund. By doing so, we can ensure that if death strikes one of our own, there will be sufficient funds available to provide a dignified burial service and lay our loved ones to rest in a manner befitting of a good Muslim. Remember, death is inevitable, but it is our preparations for it that will make all the difference.