A direct cremation can be defined in several ways. While some may argue that a direct cremation is an unattended cremation, others don't necessarily agree. Let us explain more below.
Direct cremation usually means an unattended cremation, but direct cremation providers often offer pared back and family-led services too. These may be referred to as attended direct cremation. Like a direct cremation, an attended direct cremation or small cremation service is simple and lower cost, but has the added benefit of being able to say goodbye to your loved one in person.
The difference between the two is that at an attended cremation, mourners can be present and a service will take place, whereas unattended takes place without mourners or a service.
But everything else is the same. The collection and the care for the deceased are all taken care of, so you can be with your nearest and dearest at the most difficult of times.
And there isn't too much difference between the price. Our unattended cremation starts from just £1,350 while our attended cremation starts from just £1,950.
A direct cremation is the simplest and least stressful way to have a funeral. For both an unattended cremation and an attended cremation, the process is just the same. There are no organisational tasks for the family, instead, the cremation provider takes care of everything.
At Distinct Cremations, we take care of every step of the direct cremation process, from collection to the cremation itself, right through to the return or scattering of the ashes.
This allows you to concentrate on being with your family at the most difficult time.
Before a passing or at the time of passing, you just need to give us a call and we'll begin getting things ready. All we need is some basic information to start getting your cremation arrangements in place.
Our caring team will collect the deceased from anywhere in the mainland UK, whether your loved one is at home, in a care home or at a hospital. The deceased will be then taken to our professional mortuary facilities before cremation.
We will prepare your loved one for cremation, bathe them and remove any artificial items We will then lay them to rest in the coffin, transport them to the crematorium and we will inform you of the date of cremation.
The cremation will take place at one of our 42 crematoriums in the UK. Whether you're having an unattended or attended cremation, the coffin is taken through the front door, rested on the catafalque while a song of your choice is played or a moment of silence is respected, then the cremation or service takes place.
The ashes will be personally delivered back to you within 14 days or scattered in the garden of remembrance upon request. You may then like to arrange a memorial service to commemorate the life of your loved one.
A direct cremation, whether it's an unattended or attended direct cremation, is the simplest way to have a funeral. There is no flashy procession or flashy cars. Instead, it's just a no fuss funeral.
You can view the key differences between an unattended or attended direct cremation below.
| Direct Cremation | Attended Cremation | |
|---|---|---|
| Paperwork support & professional advice | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Washing & preparation of the deceased | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Option to view deceased | ❌ | ❌ |
| Choice of crematorium | ❌ | ✔️ ! |
| Funeral procession | ❌ | ❌ |
| Funeral service with attendance of mourners | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Return of ashes in ashes container or urn | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Our unattended cremation is a great choice for those looking for a simple, low-cost unattended cremation without a funeral ceremony. Unattended cremations take place with no service or mourners present at our high-quality crematoria where dignified care is guaranteed throughout.
Our attended cremation is perfect for those looking for a fuss-free farewell and a final chance to say goodbye. With our dignified and affordable attended cremations you have a choice of a 30 or a 60 minute funeral service depending on what you and your family would prefer.
If a family member is having an unattended cremation, that doesn't mean you can't have a commemoration event of some kind.
Indeed, there are plenty of ways to commemorate a loved one either prior to the cremation or after it. Here are a few ideas.
Some families like to hold a small gathering or informal ceremony before the cremation occurs. This gathering can provide an opportunity for loved ones to come together, share memories, offer support, and say their goodbyes. This can take place wherever the family feel comfortable.
Many families opt to hold a memorial service after the cremation has taken place. This allows for a more flexible timeline, enabling family and friends to come together at a later date to honour the memory of the deceased. Memorial services can take various forms, from formal ceremonies in a place of worship to casual gatherings at a favourite location or even virtual events.
In an age of digital connectivity, it's increasingly common for memorial services and gatherings to be streamed online, allowing friends and family members who are unable to attend in person to participate remotely. Virtual attendance can provide a sense of inclusion for those who are geographically distant or unable to travel.
You don't just have to have an event to commemorate the life of a loved one. There are numerous, thoughtful ways to commemorate their life.
Here are a couple of examples you may like to take inspiration from.
You could design a memorial tribute that celebrates the life of your loved one. This could include compiling a photo album, creating a scrapbook, or assembling a digital slideshow featuring significant moments and milestones. Displaying this tribute in a prominent place can serve as a lasting reminder of their impact on your life.
You may like to consider planting a tree, shrub, or garden in honour of your loved one. Choose a location that holds special significance, such as their favourite outdoor spot or a communal garden where others can appreciate the living memorial. Spending time in the garden can provide a sense of connection and comfort.
Making a charitable donation in honour of your loved one can be an appropriate and selfless way to commemorate a loved one. Choose a cause or organisation that held significance to them, whether it's a charity they supported, a cause they were passionate about, or a research foundation related to their illness. Making a positive impact in their memory can be a meaningful way to honour their legacy.
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Over 74,000 cremations a year
Westerleigh Group including Distinct Cremations carried out over 74,000 cremations in 2024.
