Who pays for the funeral?

We have just been through all this. No you do not have to pay. Funeral costs come out of the deceased estate. If they have no money the council pays. We did though pay for a simple funeral
£10350. With the Coop.

Ah, yes.
That makes sense now.

Relatives don’t have to pay the cost of a funeral unless they arrange it.

A basic Public Health funeral will be arranged by the Council. It will be at a time and date of their choosing. Relatives can attend. Usually it just involves a few words of commital and the burial. Nothing else.

If relatives want more then they will have to pay.

A death grant is available for a close relative spouse, child, parent) who is in receipt of benefits. This usually pays for death certificates and other essentials.

why would an heir hunter contact you if the estate is of little value.

You are allowed a grant to buy the basics, I think, if you are next of kin but don't have the funds.

No I'm pretty sure you don't have to. I think the local council arranges it, what used to be called a paupers funeral.