The number of people choosing a direct cremation in the UK has risen dramatically over the past couple of years. In 2018, these simple services accounted for just 2% of all funerals*. Three years later, that number had risen to 18%*.
How direct cremations have gained in popularity
Many factors have contributed to the inexorable rise in direct cremations. COVID-19 has certainly played a large part. Since the start of the pandemic almost a quarter of UK funerals (Feb 2020 – Jul 2021) have been direct cremations. That’s a figure only just behind burials.
With lockdown rules and social distancing limiting the number of people able to attend a traditional funeral service alternatives were sought. Direct cremations became a practical choice. And then there’s the cost. With no mourners at a direct cremation there are no limousines or flowers to pay for. The body is not embalmed either.
Facts about direct cremation – Sales & marketing
There has also been a sharp proliferation in the marketing of direct cremations. Afternoon TV is awash with adverts promoting ‘simple’ or ‘no fuss’ funerals. These are usually direct cremations or pre-paid plans to cover this type of service. The average burial costs around £4,900 while a cremation is roughly £3,700, so the price of around £1,500 for a direct cremation is a powerful enticement. As living costs continue to soar price considerations are sure to remain at the forefront of many minds. It helps to explain why tens of thousands of direct cremation plans have been sold by the leading providers in recent months.
It isn’t all about cost
Another important consideration is choice. Many wish to bring individual preferences to their funeral and do not wish to conform to the norm. The Centre for Death and Society (CDAS) has conducted a number of studies which highlight the growing acceptance to come together and commemorate at a different date to the actual cremation. By holding a commemorative service at a later date (and in a more poignant place) family and close friends can better determine the attendees. Why attend a funeral service with people you hardly know or see? Indeed, a survey by the CDAS of 261 mourners found no difference in ‘grief experience’ between those organising a traditional funeral and those that chose not to.
For others, it is the simplicity and lack of hassle for loved ones that are compelling reasons to opt for a direct cremation. By leaving loved ones with less to do at the most upsetting of times, some of the pressure is alleviated. Perhaps it makes more sense to be able to arrange for the cremation and memorial service to be held on different dates? The distance between the two allows loved ones to think and plan more clearly. It also gives mourners who live further afield more chance to attend.
Is a direct cremation for you?
Like many decisions in life, there are pros and cons to a direct cremation. So, before committing to a direct cremation it might be worth considering the points below.
Key facts about direct cremation
- If you are thinking of a direct cremation do talk it over with members of your family. It can come as a nasty shock to be told that you can’t plan or attend the funeral service of a loved one
- With a direct cremation there isn’t the opportunity to view the body in a chapel of rest
- The body is not prepared (or embalmed) and may not be cared for at a mortuary nearby
- A coffin is not necessary (but the body must be covered in public). Some people choose a ‘stretcher‘ rather than a coffin
- Family and/or loved ones can arrange a memorial service at a future date and scatter the ashes
- It’s highly likely that your local Funeral Director can help you to plan a direct cremation. They will also be able to talk you through these and other factors in more detail
Direct cremations are still relatively unknown
It appears that the direct cremation market in the UK is still in its infancy. SunLife discovered that less than half the people that they spoke with were aware of the existence of direct cremations. A recent YouGov Omnibus survey by the NAFD found that 38% of British adults would consider a direct cremation for themselves. Furthermore, 28% stated that they would consider a direct cremation for a loved one.
Talk to loved ones
The SunLife Cost of Dying report contains a number of worrying statistics. One that leaps out is that the number of people who were informed of their loved one’s funeral wishes fell (year-on-year) and now stands at just 62%.
Several of the other alarming statistics in the report revolve around finances and ensuring adequate provision is made. 66% of people made provisions specifically to pay for their funeral before they passed away. However, only 63% put enough aside to cover the whole cost. Many had to cover funeral expenses by taking on debt. As the chart below shows, 16% of people even had to sell belongings to raise the funds.
This blog has been written during Dying Matters Awareness Week (2 – 6 May). However you decide to make your final journey, do discuss your wishes with loved ones. It will save those left behind a great deal of stress and soul-searching.
