A close relative died a fairly awful death around Easter (cancer). Due to Covid, his partner was unable to have the funeral he wanted. Partner been left fairly isolated since then however was keeping busy they said by winding up the estate and ensuring relative’s wishes re will were carried out. Probate applied for in June and she received acknowledgment but nothing since. Two of the beneficiaries have lost jobs due to COVID and really need the financial gift they’ve been left in the will (cash no house to sell). However the phone calls to follow up ring off after 45 mins on hold, emails go unanswered and in the four months that has passed since paperwork was submitted, relative’s partner has suffered two further bereavements and Covid constrained burials. The unresolved issue over probate is causing her so much distress as she feels unable to deliver on intentions of will. AIBU that even if staff in district probate office are working remotely, and some delay is unavoidable, communication could at least be better supported? If there was any time that these issues need resolved, arguably it’s now? I’m not a beneficiary btw!