Direct Cremation

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Direct Cremation Services – A Simple, Dignified Farewell

At Farewells Funerals, we offer direct cremation as a respectful, simple, and cost-effective option for families. This increasingly popular choice provides a meaningful alternative to traditional funeral services, offering flexibility and control over how and when you say goodbye to your loved one.

What is Direct Cremation?

Direct cremation is a straightforward and dignified process where the deceased is cremated without a formal funeral service or ceremony at the crematorium. This option allows you to plan a memorial or celebration of life at a later date, in a location and manner that suits you and your family’s needs.

This no-fuss approach is ideal for those who prefer a simple, private farewell or for those looking to save on funeral costs. Direct cremation offers families the freedom to organise a more personalised, meaningful service or tribute when it feels right.

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Why Choose Direct Cremation?

There are many reasons families choose direct cremation as their preferred option:

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Cost-Effective

Direct cremation is often significantly more affordable than traditional funeral services because it eliminates many of the associated costs, such as venue hire, embalming, and an officiant's fee.

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Simplicity

This option is free from the complexities of planning a formal ceremony, offering a peaceful and simple approach to saying goodbye.

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Flexibility

After the cremation, the ashes can be kept, scattered, or interred in a place that holds meaning. You can plan a memorial or celebration of life whenever it’s right for you, in a location that suits you.

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Privacy

If you want a quiet, private farewell without a large, formal ceremony, direct cremation is an ideal choice.

Leaving the Light On: Our Promise to You

At Farewells Funerals, we are committed to being there for you long after the funeral service has ended. Our "Leaving the Light On" pledge reflects our dedication to providing ongoing care and support for you and your family. Whether you need assistance with grief, legal matters, or simply someone to talk to, we are always here for you, ensuring you never have to navigate this difficult time alone.

What’s Included in a Direct Cremation?

Our direct cremation service includes everything necessary to ensure a respectful, straightforward process:

Optional Add-Ons: If you wish, we can assist with additional services such as arranging for a memorial event, providing floral tributes, or offering personalised keepsakes and Celebration of life or legacy event.

  • Collection of the deceased: We will transfer your loved one into our care, from their home, hospital, nursing home, or hospice.
  • Cremation: The cremation will be carried out at a local, reputable crematorium. No formal ceremony will be held at the crematorium.
  • Crematorium and doctor's fees: All associated costs with the cremation, including the doctor’s certificate and crematorium fees, are included in the price.
  • Return of ashes: The ashes will be returned to you in a simple, dignified urn or container.
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How Direct Cremation Works

The process of direct cremation is simple and respectful. Here’s a step-by-step guide to how it works:

  • Notification: After the death is confirmed, you can contact us at Farewells Funerals to begin the process. We will take care of all the necessary paperwork and arrangements on your behalf.
  • Transfer of the Deceased: We will collect your loved one from their home, hospital, or care facility and bring them into our care.
  • Cremation: The cremation takes place at a local crematorium. There is no formal service held at the crematorium. The cremation is conducted respectfully, and the ashes are returned to the family.
  • Return of Ashes: Within 5-10 working days, we will return the ashes to you in a simple urn or container. You can then decide what to do with them, whether that’s keeping them at home, scattering them, or interring them in a memorial site.

Suggested Locations for Scattering Ashes

Once the cremation has taken place, many families choose to scatter their loved one's ashes in a location that held special meaning to them. Here are a few suggested locations:

You may choose from peaceful spots like Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning views and serene landscapes. Ripon Cathedral also offers a reflective environment for scattering ashes in its grounds. Additionally, locations like Boroughbridge’s River Ure, Nidderdale, and Hackfall Woods offer scenic and natural backdrops for this special moment. Remember, it’s important to always seek permission from the landowner or local authorities before scattering ashes at public sites.

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Additional Services

Legacy Celebration - £250

Viewing in chapel of rest - £100

Do You Need Permission to Scatter Ashes?

Yes, it’s essential to obtain permission before scattering ashes in certain locations. Here are the key considerations:

Private Property

If you wish to scatter ashes on private land, you must get the property owner’s consent. This applies to both residential property and other privately owned spaces, such as parks, gardens, or fields.

Public Spaces

If you are considering scattering ashes in a public space such as a park, river, or nature reserve, it is important to check with the relevant authorities or governing bodies. Some parks and nature reserves may have rules or guidelines for scattering ashes, and permission is typically required.

Waterways

When scattering ashes in rivers, lakes, or the sea, it’s essential to follow local regulations. The Environment Agency and other governing bodies may have specific rules to ensure environmental safety. Always seek advice on how to do this in a respectful and legal manner.

We can help guide you through these considerations and advise on how to obtain the necessary permissions.

Why Choose Direct Cremation?

Direct cremation offers a simple, respectful, and affordable way to say goodbye to your loved one. It provides flexibility, privacy, and control over the funeral process, while still ensuring that the necessary care and respect are given throughout the entire process.

Contact Us

At Farewells Funerals, we are here to make the process as easy as possible, providing compassionate and professional support at every step. If you’re interested in learning more about our direct cremation services or have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.

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Farewells Funerals

Offering affordable, respectful, and personalised funeral services with compassion and care.

Application for cremation of the body of a person who has died

This form must be completed by a person who is at least 16 years of age.
Please complete this form in full, if a part does not apply enter ‘N/A’.