Frequently Asked Questions

The Westerleigh Group are the parent company of Distinct Cremations. Together, we are one of the UK’s largest cremation providers. The Westerleigh Group have owned and managed a network of crematoria within the UK for over 30 years. We now operate 41 crematoriums.

Westerleigh Group has a strong emphasis on the environmental aspect of its work and has been measuring emissions and investing in the latest energy efficiency for some time. By 2032, Westerleigh Group has a target of reaching net zero carbon emissions by continuing to invest in the latest energy-efficient equipment and developing a significant programme of woodland tree planting.

Westerleigh Group’s crematoriums also have extensive and beautiful grounds and offer a unique opportunity to respond to the current biodiversity crisis and offset residual carbon.

If you would like to arrange a direct cremation in [location] for yourself in the future or you know you will be responsible for planning someone else's funeral, you can also arrange a direct cremation in advance with a direct cremation funeral plan. As well as providing direct cremation services at the time of need, we also offer the option to set up a Direct Cremation Plan.

A [location] direct cremation is an unattended cremation without a conventional funeral service. Choosing a direct cremation funeral gives you the freedom to hold a celebration of your loved one's life at a place which has personal significance and takes away the time pressure so you can plan a memorial in exactly the way you would like.

Some alternatives to a traditional funeral are taking a walk to scatter ashes, having a family meal, holding an event at home or at a local venue or something to reflect your loved one's unique hobbies and interests.

While we can’t arrange the celebration for you we can provide funeral guidance if needed.

Yes, you can arrange your own direct cremation funeral with a direct cremation funeral plan. Our Direct Cremation Plan includes everything needed for a respectful unattended cremation. The plan also includes the return of the ashes so that your family has the option to hold a memorial event separate to the cremation itself.

Unfortunately, we’re unable to offer viewings of the deceased before, or during, the cremation.

We provide a classic light oak style coffin.

If a larger coffin is required, we will provide this at no additional cost.

Yes, single payments and instalments up to 12 months are held in a secure Trust which is managed by independent trustees. For 5 & 10 year instalment plans we purchase a “whole of life” policy from Scottish Friendly - an authorised and regulated insurance provider. The proceeds of that policy will be used to pay for your chosen cremation at the time of need.