Find helpful articles, checklists and guidance from our experts.

Our funeral guidance covers all aspects of funeral arrangements, whether you're organising a funeral for a loved one who has died or pre-planning and paying for a funeral ahead of time.

Use our articles below to answer your questions or help you with your research to inform your decisions.

Questions our customers ask

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What is a direct cremation?

A direct cremation is a simple fuss-free cremation without the costs, and stress associated with arranging a traditional funeral. For many, a direct cremation allows them to separate the cremation from the celebration of the deceased’s life, allowing them a dignified opportunity to say goodbye in a way that better suits them.

What is a direct cremation?

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What is the cheapest cremation?

The cheapest way to be cremated in the UK is with a direct cremation which takes place without a funeral service or mourners in attendance and starts from just £1,199 with Distinct Cremations if you need a funeral today.

What is the cheapest cremation?

How long does a cremation take?

Typically, it takes 1-3 hours for a body to be cremated, but that depends on what type of funeral you're having. To help you understand the process better, here's a step-by-step guide to what you can expect from a cremation.

How long does a cremation take?

Can you attend a direct cremation?

Yes, you can attend a direct cremation. Though most direct cremations are unattended, with Distinct Cremations you can attend a direct cremation with services lasting up to 20 minutes for 20 people.

Can you attend a direct cremation?
Couple hand in hand

Whether you're preparing for a loved one's death or thinking about your own, there are a number of aspects you can arrange beforehand.

Read more about anticipating a death >>

Holding hands

Understanding what you need to do when someone dies, and when to do it, can help ease the stress and confusion you may be experiencing.

Read more about what to do when someone dies >>

Herne Bay Crematorium Chapel Behind Hedges

Here are our guides, articles and helpful information to make the process of arranging a funeral that bit easier.

Read more about arranging a funeral >>

Personalise a funeral

Get help with organising a funeral for a loved one and ideas for how to make a funeral service more personal.

Read more about organising a funeral >>

Cremation Distinct

Take a look at the types of funeral services available, from direct cremations to traditional funerals, and the funeral types we offer.

Read more about the different types of funerals >>

Glasses On Wallet On Table

Learn more about the costs you can expect to pay for different funeral types and how to minimise the money you spend.

Read more about funeral costs >>

There are a number of charities and helplines doing great work for those recently bereaved:

Samaritans (Call: 116 123) - Free 24/7 support for anyone needing any kind of emotional support

Cruse (Call: 0808 808 1677) - Free helpline supporting those suffering with bereavement or loss

Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (Call: 0300 111 5065) - UK support line meeting the needs and overcoming the isolation experienced by people over 18 who have been bereaved by suicide

Veterans UK (Call: 0808 191 4218) - Government-ran support organisation providing free support for veterans and their families

Age UK (Call: 0800 678 1602) - The UK's leading charity helping millions of older people with support, companionship and advice

The Silver Line (Call: 0800 470 8090) - Free 24/7 helpline for older people struggling with loneliness, sadness or lowness

Have a question?

Whether you're wanting to arrange a funeral today, plan for the future, or looking for something else, our customer service specialists are here for you 24/7 to answer any questions you may have.

Ask a question today or call us on 01543 211 997.
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