Direct Cremation FAQs
If you are considering a direct cremation, it is completely normal to have questions about how the process works, what is included and what happens afterwards.
At Haseldine Funeral Services, we provide simple and dignified direct cremation arrangements for families in Bedford and the surrounding areas.
Below, we have answered some of the most common questions we are asked.
What Is a Direct Cremation?
A direct cremation is a cremation without a traditional funeral service taking place beforehand.
There is usually no procession, hearse, limousines or formal ceremony at the crematorium. Instead, the deceased is brought into our care and the cremation takes place privately.
This can offer families a simpler and more affordable alternative to a traditional funeral.
How Much Does a Direct Cremation Cost?
Our direct cremation package starts from £1,150.
We will explain exactly what is included before any arrangements are confirmed.
If there are any circumstances that may involve additional costs, these will always be discussed with you beforehand.
What Is Included in a Direct Cremation?
A typical direct cremation package includes the essential arrangements needed for the cremation to take place.
Our service includes:
- Professional funeral director services
- Bringing the deceased into our care
- Care of the deceased before cremation
- A suitable coffin
- Necessary funeral arrangements and paperwork
- Transportation to the crematorium
- Crematorium fees
- Return of the ashes following the cremation
Our team will guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
Can Family Attend a Direct Cremation?
Direct cremation usually takes place without family or friends attending.
This helps keep the arrangements simple and is one of the reasons direct cremation can cost less than a traditional funeral.
If you would like family members to attend the crematorium or hold a formal service, we can discuss other funeral options with you.
Can We Have a Memorial Service Afterwards?
Yes.
Many families choose to hold a memorial service or celebration of life after the cremation has taken place.
This can give you more freedom over the date, location and style of the gathering.
You can arrange something very simple or organise a larger event for family and friends.
What Happens to the Ashes After a Direct Cremation?
Following the cremation, the ashes can be returned to the family.
You can then decide what you would like to do with them.
Options may include:
- Keeping the ashes at home
- Scattering them in a meaningful location
- Placing them in an urn
- Burying or interring them
- Placing them in a memorial
- Dividing them between family members
There is no need to make this decision immediately.
How Long Does a Direct Cremation Take to Arrange?
The timescale can vary depending on the circumstances and the availability of the necessary paperwork.
Once all required documentation has been completed, the cremation can be arranged.
Our team will keep you informed and explain the expected timescale when you contact us.
Do I Need to Visit the Funeral Home?
Not necessarily.
Many direct cremation arrangements can be discussed over the telephone.
We can explain what information and paperwork are required and guide you through the process.
If you would prefer to meet us in person, this can also be arranged.
Can You Collect Someone Who Has Died at Home?
Yes.
If someone has died at home, we can advise you on what happens next and arrange for them to be brought into our care when appropriate.
The process can depend on whether the death was expected and whether a doctor has been involved.
Please contact us and we will guide you through the next steps.
Can You Collect Someone From a Hospital or Care Home?
Yes.
We can arrange to bring someone into our care from a hospital, care home or other location once the required paperwork and permissions are in place.
Our team will explain the process and liaise with the relevant organisation where necessary.
Does a Direct Cremation Use a Coffin?
Yes.
A suitable coffin is used for the cremation.
With a direct cremation, the focus is on simplicity, so the coffin is generally straightforward rather than decorative.
Is the Deceased Treated Differently With a Direct Cremation?
No.
A direct cremation may be simpler than a traditional funeral, but the deceased is still treated with dignity, care and respect.
Our team provides professional care throughout the entire process.
Can We Choose the Date of the Cremation?
Direct cremations are normally arranged according to crematorium availability rather than around a formal funeral service.
This helps keep the service simple and affordable.
We will let you know once the cremation has been arranged.
Do We Need to Buy an Urn?
No.
You do not need to purchase an urn immediately.
The ashes can be returned in a suitable container, allowing you time to decide whether you would like to purchase a permanent urn or memorial at a later date.
Can We Scatter the Ashes Anywhere?
There are many places where ashes can be scattered, but permission may be required depending on where you choose.
If you are considering scattering ashes on private land, at a cemetery, crematorium or other managed location, it is sensible to check the relevant rules first.
Can We Separate the Ashes Between Family Members?
Yes.
Many families choose to divide ashes so that different relatives can keep or scatter a portion.
If this is something you are considering, please speak to us and we can explain the options available.
Is Direct Cremation Cheaper Than a Traditional Funeral?
In most cases, yes.
Direct cremation usually costs less because it does not include many of the elements associated with a traditional funeral, such as a formal crematorium service, hearse, limousines and ceremonial arrangements.
It can therefore be a suitable choice for families looking for a simple and affordable funeral option.
Why Do People Choose Direct Cremation?
People choose direct cremation for many different reasons.
Some prefer a simple funeral without ceremony, while others may wish to hold a separate memorial at a later date.
For some families, cost is also an important consideration.
There is no right or wrong choice. The best option is the one that feels most appropriate for you and your family.
Can We Still Have Flowers or a Tribute?
Direct cremation is usually kept very simple, but this does not stop you from arranging flowers, photographs, music or other personal tributes as part of a separate memorial afterwards.
A celebration of life can be made as personal as you wish.
What Happens If We Change Our Mind?
If you are unsure whether direct cremation is right for you, speak to us before making a final decision.
We can explain the different funeral options available and help you understand the differences between a direct cremation and a traditional funeral service.
Do You Provide Direct Cremations in Bedford?
Yes.
Haseldine Funeral Services provides direct cremation arrangements for families in Bedford and the surrounding Bedfordshire area.
We also serve nearby locations including Kempston, Bromham, Wootton, Cranfield, Marston Moretaine and surrounding villages.
How Do I Arrange a Direct Cremation?
The first step is simply to contact us.
We will explain what happens next, discuss the circumstances with you and guide you through the arrangements.
If you need immediate help or would like advice about direct cremation in Bedford, please contact Haseldine Funeral Services today.