Direct Cremation or Traditional Funeral
Saying goodbye is highly personal and emotive. With so many choices regarding different funeral types, how do you choose the best for your loved one and your family?
With a menu of options when it comes to alternative funeral types, the traditional funeral is not the only way to say goodbye in modern times.
In fact, often, the choice can seem quite vast. In 2022, we are witnessing cremations continuing to rise to approximately three quarters of all funerals in the UK. Also, there is a trend for traditional funerals to retain their popularity, but to continue to evolve, as families demand more unique choices that fit with their modern lifestyles.
The funeral director’s role is keep up with the changing times, but always support families in the very best way they can. At CPJ Field, our funeral directors and funeral arrangers are here to listen to you, care for your loved one, and help organise a funeral that you will feel is befitting and suits your family’s wishes (and budget).
Not everyone agrees with each other, when they walk through our door, and not everyone has considered the many aspects that go into funeral planning, often because they have had no prior need to do so. It can be a difficult and distressing time, but good funeral directors will be able to guide families in their personal choices because it is simply that, very personal.
So, what are the main choices and how do we assist families to make the best decision?
Funerals principally range from the more traditional-type event with a ceremony and committal, through to a non-attendance direct cremation. At CPJ Field, we offer several ways to say goodbye so that families can choose exactly what they feel is right for them.
Understanding the differences between funeral services
Traditional Funerals
Whilst they will feature a ceremony, traditional funerals, do not have to be religious or elaborate. With a good funeral director, nothing is set in stone. They are there to arrange everything to support you and take the worry away from the day itself. Here are some of the things that are often included in a full funeral:
- A funeral date and time to suit you – no restrictions on burial site or crematorium*
- Choice of the most appropriate coffin, and consideration given to its role in the ceremony
- Choice of both the hearse and how the principal mourners will travel to the funeral
- Unlimited attendees for a gathering of family and friends to pay last respects
- A unique opportunity to plan the ceremony as you wish with a local celebrant if required
- Personal choice of order of service and music to support the funeral day
- Option to hold a reception where you wish
Non-attendance local cremation
If a family would prefer a non-attendance funeral from their local funeral home, this service is also often available.
It is similar to a direct cremation but feels less cold and more personal. It should include the same level of service as a full funeral and is locally based to support you. The funeral home will care for the deceased person with a provision of mortuary care by experienced and qualified members of the funeral service team. Advice on registering the death and assistance with completing burial or cremation applications should be included. You are notified of when the cremation/burial is to take place, but no mourners will be present.
Direct Cremation
A direct cremation is a no-fuss, more economic farewell with no attendance, and can take place at a crematorium nationwide. There are no flowers, no hearses, or celebrants and the ashes are simply sent back to the family. The occasion can still be marked at a later date by the family in a personal way, such as with a small gathering, a celebration of life or wake.
What range for funerals does CPJ Field offer?
Our Funeral Directors will be able to talk to you in detail about all the funerals listed above and more. For personal, bespoke, and tailored funerals from direct cremations through to traditional funerals we are here to support you.
What are the factors at play that lead to making the right or best choice?
Whilst some families do opt for a direct cremation, it is not right for everyone.
It cannot be underestimated that the care and support from a funeral director at a difficult time can be a huge benefit. Without this ‘care’ bereaved families can feel lost, and often isolated. An experienced funeral director will understand grief and the grieving process and will often have received training to help with the well-being of families both in advance of the funeral and for some time thereafter.
Celebrations that get planned at the time often do not come to fruition with the passage of time, leaving family members sad and empty that they did not say goodbye collectively, and feeling they missed the opportunity for the important closure at the end of a life.
Contact Us
For more information on the full range of funerals that CPJ Field can offer, please contact us by using the search facility below.
