12/05/2026
For me Katie Costello - End of Life Support Services is the font all knowledge when it comes to death and dying . Here she explores some myths and explores options around choice .
Thankyou Katie
Some common myths I had the chance to bust recently and all are very common topics of conversation in my world…
☕️ You CAN be buried in your back garden. As long as you go in the deeds, aren’t too near water and the landowner (so possibly you anyway) approves, go for it. You can bury 2 people but be careful, any more and you’ll have to apply to be a cemetery/burial ground (Also, these are expected, verified deaths we are dealing with 🙈)
☕️ You do not need to use a funeral director. They come in very handy and most of us do for very good reason, but legally you don’t HAVE to.
☕️ You can keep a person at home after they have died. Likely for a couple days, possibly even a week but circumstances vary. This is personal choice with a few SERIOUS things to consider but doable nonetheless. And legal 🙏🏼
☕️ You can transport a person after they have died in any vehicle you like.
☕️ You do not need to use a coffin. Again, few things to think about but don’t assume a coffin HAS to be used for every situation.
☕️ There are many different ways to be a celebrant. I am Independent, some are Humanist, others are ordained and have niche offerings or areas of expertise. Others are many other fabulous things. Have a Google, do your research.
☕️ And know you can call your celebrant BEFORE your funeral director. You don’t have to use who the FD recommends.
☕️ Some peoples skin/body change dramatically when they die, some look almost no different. Please don’t assume the experience you may have had, determines every death and how it looks.
☕️ You do not have to be embalmed, it’s a choice, not a legal requirement. In some situations it may be needed or recommended and do check the fine print on any plans you may have in place.
☕️ There are little to no laws around how you do a funeral and the way you do the service. You have more choice than you realise.
There are so many assumptions made about death, dying and funerals. If you’re feeling able, exploring your choices, finding out about your options and asking questions can really open up a whole new world; it really is an interesting, inspiring and insightful one 🙏🏼❤️
📸 Croydon Cemetery