Originally a market town, Dudley was one of the birthplaces of the Industrial Revolution and grew into an industrial centre in the 19th century with its iron, coal, and limestone industries before their decline and the relocation of its commercial centre to the nearby Merry Hill Shopping Centre in the 1980s.

A large industrialised market town in the West Midlands, Dudley is the capital of the Black Country.  The town’s history dates back to Anglo-Saxon times, its name is derived from Duddan Leah which means Dudda’s clearing, and it was mentioned in the Domesday Book as Dudelei. 

• Dudley Zoo and Castle – this 40 acre zoo is home to more than 1300 animals, (approximately 200 species) and is located around the ruins of 11^th century Dudley castle, the UK’s only vintage chairlift is here, as well as 12 Grade II listed Tecton buildings, limestone caverns.  Castle Hill, Dudley, DY1 4QF
• Priory Park – this public park located in the grounds of historic Dudley Priory covers 19 acres and has playing fields, lily pond, wooded area, café, children’s play area.           23 Paganel Drive, Dudley, DY1 4AZ.
• Black Country Living Museum – set across 26 acres, this open-air museum is home to reconstructed buildings including houses, shops and industrial areas telling the story of the Black Country complete with smells and sounds from the past.  Tipton Road, Dudley, DY1 4SQ.
• Wren’s Nest National Nature Reserve – you can join a warden on a guided walk around the nature reserve – children will enjoy the “hunt for a Dudley Bug” walk – you can hunt for fossils, take the highlights walk, see the seven sisters mine etc. Wrens Hill Road, Dudley, DY1 3SB.
• Himley Hall and Park – 18^th century building that was the family home of the Earls of Dudley, set amongst 180 acres of landscaped parkland.  Himley Road, Himley, Dudley, DY3 4DF.

If the history of the industrial revolution is of interest to you, Black Country Living Museum is uniquely placed to tell the story of the creation of the world’s first industrial landscape (DY1 4SQ). Over fifty authentic shops, houses and workshops have been carefully reconstructed to preserve the character of the region when its manufacturers bought worldwide fame to Black Country Towns. 

But if you’re focused on your future and not the past, these family law firms could help you:

Waldrons Solicitors began as a small firm in Brierley Hill, and their commitment to excellent client care has seen them grow into a company with offices across the West Midlands, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire, including their Dudley office at Court House, 34 The Inhedge, Dudley, DY1 1RR.

Alternatively, Wright Solicitors have roots in the Black Country and in Bewdley and they are proud of their heritage but also recognise, like any growing business, that they have changed to ensure their clients are at the heart of everything they do. You can find Wright Solicitors at Lutley House, 13 St James’s Rd, Dudley, DY1 1JF.

Dealing with bereavement and making a financial plan in Dudley

The death of a spouse may result in dealing with very difficult financial matters, especially for those who may be inexperienced. Many counsellors comment that frequently, the anger part of the grieving process stems from a partner being left to deal with “money worries”. Often the person left behind has never ever had to deal with such matters as their partner took charge of bills etc. If the bereavement was premature or unexpected, this can be even more terrifying. 

Emotional and Practical Considerations

Not only is the bereaved dealing with their personal emotions and maybe those of their children or other family members, but they may have additional worries too. Within any relationship. one partner usually takes the lead in dealing with the day to day nitty-gritty and everyone becomes dependent on a partner for something.

Starting over again and the importance of financial planning

• How is the mortgage going to be paid?
• How are loans going to be dealt with?
• Is there a life assurance or pension plan to be claimed? If so, how to go about that.
• Has the deceased left a will? Where is it? What does it say?
• How should any available capital be made to work most effectively? Should it be invested?

Even where the finances have a semblance of being organised, there is worry about the future along with matters such as banking and how pensions and investments function. It takes an experienced and patient Financial Advisor to put a person’s mind at ease. Rarely is it a good idea to make big decisions in the aftermath of a bereavement as all opportunities have to be carefully considered. A good financial expert will advise with compassion and empathy. It’s all about reassurance. Matters which need to be dealt with quickly can be prioritised. Issues which may wait, can be revisited in the months to come.

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