Direct Cremations: Understanding Your Options
When someone close to you dies, deciding how you want to say goodbye can feel overwhelming. Every family is different, and there is no single type of funeral that is right for everyone.
While many families choose a traditional funeral service, direct cremation is another option that has become increasingly well known in recent years.
You may have seen television and online advertising from national providers who specialise in providing direct cremation services. Their advertising has helped to raise awareness of direct cremation, but many families may not realise that they can also discuss this option with their local, independent funeral director.
At AJ Wakely & Sons, we believe families should have access to clear, honest information about all the options available to them, so they can make an informed decision that is right for their individual circumstances.
What is a direct cremation?
A direct cremation is a cremation that takes place without a traditional funeral service or mourners attending the crematorium.
The person who has died is cared for by the funeral director and taken to the crematorium, where the cremation takes place. The ashes are then returned to the family, allowing them to decide how and when they would like to remember their loved one.
For some families, a direct cremation provides a simpler alternative to a traditional funeral service. It can also give relatives and friends the flexibility to arrange a personal memorial or celebration of life at a later date.
There are many different reasons why someone may choose a direct cremation, and every family's circumstances are unique.
Who are national providers?
Within the funeral industry, there are many national providers of direct cremations. You may have seen their advertising on television, online or elsewhere.
Their service is specifically focused on direct cremation, meaning there is no traditional funeral service or ceremony at the crematorium.
For families who have already decided that a direct cremation is what they want, a specialist direct cremation provider may be one option to consider.
However, it is important to remember that you do not have to use a national direct cremation company simply because you have seen their advertising.
You can also discuss direct cremation with your local funeral director
Direct cremation is not only available through national providers.
As a local, independent funeral director, AJ Wakely & Sons can also discuss direct cremation with families, alongside the other funeral arrangements we offer.
This means you can speak to a local funeral director about your circumstances and explore the options available to you before making a decision.
You may find that you have more choice than you initially realised.
Local independent funeral director or national direct cremation provider?
There is no single answer to which type of provider is right for every family. What matters is understanding the differences between the services available and choosing the option that feels right for you.
A national provider specialises specifically in direct cremation. If you have decided that this is definitely the type of funeral you want, this may be one option you wish to consider.
A local independent funeral director, such as AJ Wakely & Sons, can offer the opportunity to discuss your wishes directly with a local team and consider a range of funeral options.
For example, you may initially think you want a direct cremation, but after talking through your circumstances, you may decide that a small, private funeral service or a larger gathering with family and friends would be more meaningful.
Equally, you may decide that direct cremation is exactly what you want.
The important thing is that you are given the opportunity to understand your choices and make your own decision, rather than feeling that you have to choose a particular type of funeral simply because it is the service you have seen advertised.
What should you ask when considering direct cremation?
If you are comparing direct cremation services, it is important to look beyond the headline price and understand exactly what is included.
You may want to ask:
- Who will care for my loved one?
- Where will they be cared for?
- Who will I be able to speak to if I have questions?
- Who will arrange and coordinate the cremation?
- What is included in the quoted price?
- Are there any additional costs?
- How and when will the ashes be returned?
- Can I arrange a memorial service or celebration of life at a later date?
- Where will the cremation take place?
- Is the service being arranged locally or nationally?
These questions can help you compare services fairly and understand exactly what you are choosing.
Why speak to your local funeral director?
Funeral arrangements are deeply personal, and sometimes you may not know exactly what you want until you have had the opportunity to talk things through.
Speaking to a local, independent funeral director gives you the chance to have an open conversation about your circumstances and wishes.
At AJ Wakely & Sons, our role is to listen, answer your questions and explain the options available to you.
We won't tell you that one type of funeral is right for everyone, because we understand that every family and every person is different.
If you are considering a direct cremation, we can explain how it works and what is involved. If you are unsure whether it is right for you, we can also talk you through alternative options.
Our aim is simply to make sure you have the information you need to make a decision that is right for you and your family.
Don't feel pressured into making a decision
The funeral industry has changed considerably in recent years, and the increased availability of direct cremation means families now have more options than ever.
Advertising can be useful in helping people discover services they may not have considered before, but it should not be the only source of information you rely on when making such an important decision.
Take the time to ask questions. Compare what is included. Consider who will be caring for your loved one and who you will be dealing with throughout the arrangements.
And remember that you can always speak to your local, independent funeral director before making your decision.
Speak to AJ Wakely & Sons
At AJ Wakely & Sons, we believe that every family deserves to understand all the options available to them.
Whether you are considering a direct cremation, a traditional funeral service or something completely different, our experienced team is here to listen, answer your questions and help you make an informed decision. We will never assume that one type of funeral is right for everyone.
If you would like to discuss direct cremation or any other funeral arrangements, please get in touch with AJ Wakely & Sons.
We're here to help you understand your choices, without pressure, so you can make the decision that's right for you and your family.
To discuss direct cremations, please contact our team today.
Contact Your Local Office
Contact Your Local Office
Companies House Registration Number: 1977927
VAT Registration Number: 634 3801 52