23/07/2025
Direct Cremation?
I am sure you will have seen the TV adverts that have been playing (repeatedly at certain times of the day!) advertising the low costs and hassle free of a direct cremation. What does this actually mean? Here is an excerpt from an informative piece from the Scotland Herald with the Funeral director Tim Purves.
"Direct cremations are frequently advertised as no-frills, low-admin options for individuals who do not want a fuss and would prefer a basic funeral. Yet this does not convey the reality.
With no option for a service or ceremony, and little to no input from family or friends, direct cremations prevent mourners from saying a personal goodbye to the deceased. There is no opportunity to visit the coffin or pay respects, the cremation taking place in a facility and at a time convenient to the funeral director.
In this way, direct cremations minimise mourners’ opportunity to grieve. Grieving is an essential part of the bereavement process and the emotional impact of joining others to say goodbye, to share memories, to celebrate and commiserate should not be underestimated. Cutting out this ritual can leave a legacy of unresolved grief and regret for families later down the line.
It is worrying to see direct cremations positioned as the answer to tackling funeral poverty in the UK, thereby eliminating choice for families who are struggling to deal with the cost of living crisis. This attempt at a "quick fix" for a deep-rooted issue does not take into account the long-term emotional consequences of losing the opportunity to properly grieve a loved one."
There are alternatives available and they should certainly be looked into before making the final decision. I had a conversation with one of our local funeral directors and even they had told me that after pricing up a cremation at a local crematorium it only worked out approximately £50 cheaper than to have a burial here at Westmill (not then taking into account the extra costs if the ashes are later interred, which can be hundreds of £'s ). We always try to keep our prices as low as we can and offer an alternative and options to those who might have to consider the financial aspect as the forefront of their decision making. We also offer the opportunity for people to come and spend the time they need here at the burial ground to grieve and mourn without a time limit. Not to mention the positive environmental impact a natural burial has in comparison to a cremation.
Certainly something to consider the next time you spot the usual people advertising on the TV having a chat in the bath or whilst trying on suits!
*Photo from Pure cremation TV ad*
