Direct Cremation Somerset: What Happens Step by Step
If you are considering direct cremation in Somerset, it can help to understand what happens from the first conversation through to the cremation itself.
Direct cremation is designed to keep the funeral arrangements simple. There is no traditional attended funeral service at the crematorium, but your loved one is still cared for professionally throughout the process.
Our role is to deal with the practical arrangements, explain what needs to happen and keep you informed so that you are not left wondering what comes next.
Every family has different circumstances, so the exact arrangements can vary. We will explain anything that applies specifically to your situation before proceeding.
Our standard direct cremation service is £895, with the main elements of the service clearly explained below.
The Direct Cremation Journey Explained
Although every situation is slightly different, most arrangements follow the same broad stages. We will guide you through each one.
1. You Contact Us
We begin by understanding what has happened, where your loved one currently is and whether there are any circumstances we need to take into account.
2. Transfer Into Our Care
Where the standard service applies, arrangements are made for your loved one to be brought into our care at our funeral home in Worcester.
3. Professional Care and Preparation
Your loved one remains in professional care while the necessary arrangements are completed and the cremation is prepared.
4. The Cremation Takes Place
Your loved one is transferred to the crematorium for a simple cremation without a traditional attended funeral service.
We will explain what is included and whether anything outside the standard arrangements applies to your circumstances.
What Makes Direct Cremation Different?
The main difference is that the cremation takes place without the traditional funeral service taking place at the crematorium. Families can remember their loved one in their own way and at a time that feels right for them.
No Traditional Attended Service
Direct cremation does not include a traditional funeral ceremony attended by family and friends at the crematorium.
Remember Them in Your Own Way
A memorial, gathering or celebration of life can be held separately if the family wishes, without needing to organise everything around the cremation itself.
You Still Have Someone to Speak To
A simpler funeral arrangement does not mean having to work everything out yourself. Our team remains available to answer questions throughout.
What Happens Before the Cremation?
Once your loved one has entered our care, we take responsibility for the practical arrangements leading up to the cremation.
This includes their professional care and preparation, the provision of a suitable simple coffin and arranging the transfer to the crematorium.
We also make sure you understand any information or decisions that are needed from you. If something is unclear, you can contact us rather than trying to work it out alone.
The intention is to keep the arrangements straightforward while maintaining the dignity and professionalism families should expect from a funeral service.
What Happens Afterwards?
The cremation itself is only one part of the process. Families often also want to understand what happens with the ashes and what they can choose to do afterwards.
Arrangements for Your Loved One's Ashes
We will explain the options available for your loved one's ashes. Hand delivery to an address in England or Wales can also be arranged separately.
A Memorial Can Be Separate
Some families choose to arrange a memorial or gathering later. Direct cremation allows this to be planned separately from the cremation itself.
You do not need to have that decided when you first contact us. We can explain the relevant arrangements as the process progresses.
When the £895 Standard Price Applies
£895 is our standard direct cremation price. Certain circumstances can require additional arrangements, so we will always explain anything relevant to your situation.
Collection from Home
Where a death occurs at a private home or nursing home and the coroner is not involved, a local third-party funeral director may be needed for the initial transfer. This is charged separately.
Specialist Requirements
Additional personnel, specialist equipment or an oversized coffin may result in further costs. In some circumstances we may not be able to provide the service.
Ashes Delivery
Hand delivery of ashes is an additional service. International arrangements can also be discussed where ashes need to be sent overseas.
Relevant additional costs will be explained before the arrangements proceed.
Things Families Often Want to Understand
Knowing what to expect can make the arrangements feel much easier to manage.
Is the cremation attended?
Direct cremation takes place without the traditional attended funeral service at the crematorium.
Is my loved one still professionally cared for?
Yes. Choosing a simpler funeral arrangement does not remove the need for professional and respectful care.
Can we have a memorial afterwards?
Families can choose to arrange their own memorial, gathering or celebration of life separately from the cremation if they wish.
What if I am unsure about part of the process?
Contact us. We would rather explain something clearly than leave you uncertain about what is happening or what you need to do.
You can view our frequently asked questions or read our Standardised Price List.
Considering Direct Cremation in Somerset?
We can explain the process before you make any decisions.
Tell us about your circumstances and we will explain what happens next, what the £895 standard service covers and whether any different arrangements may be needed.