There’s no doubt that the popularity of a direct cremations as a funeral choice is on the rise. It’s simplicity suits many people for a host of reasons but it can also leave a harmful legacy for family and friends. So here’s our quick guide to what direct cremation offers.
What is a direct cremation?
Direct is not especially clear so we prefer using the term non-attended cremation because that’s exactly what it is. The deceased, in their coffin, is taken directly to the crematorium with no-one in attendance, no service and at a time defined by the crematorium. The ashes can be returned to the family a few days later.
Advantages
Direct cremation involves minimal input from family or friends as there’s no attendance on the day. It’s cost-effective and the lack of administration suits those who want the most minimal funeral service possible.
Drawbacks
Not allowing surviving family or friends the opportunity to say goodbye is probably the most obvious. But it’s not always obvious to them or the deceased when they made their plans. Mourning is a part of the bereavement process so getting a chance to say goodbye, to share memories of a loved one with others, to celebrate and commiserate, is intrinsically human. Cutting out this ritual can leave a legacy of unresolved grief for them down the line.
Alternatives
We frequently arrange direct cremations with a same-day funeral that simply doesn’t involve attending a crematorium. We can help put together a funeral event that embraces the best of both worlds and allows for some celebration of life whether that’s in our service room, church, a village hall – even the pub.
No-fuss events are as common as elaborate send-offs. Our teams listen carefully to what’s anticipated and shape a funeral that respects the deceased’s wishes while managing the expectations of the living to achieve the right no-fuss balance.
Our promise in practice
Getting it right for you and your loved ones matters so much to us, we ensure viewing is possible for every funeral – even those who choose direct cremations. Unlike some firms, there’s no additional fee for a family to come and say goodbye as we know how important it is to have that final opportunity and leave no regrets.
Ashes
And whatever route a family chooses to go down, we can arrange for the ashes to be interred, scattered or stored. If it’s too difficult to contemplate a memorial now, it’s something we can assist with at a later date. And we have a wide range of caskets, urns and scatter tubes as well as ashes jewellery to offer.
We’ve always offered families the widest choice of funerals. Whatever they choose, they’ll always receive the highest standards of compassion, dedication, integrity and respect.
