Considering cremation? Get a clear picture of the cremation process, step-by-step. Learn about costs, legalities, and why cremation is chosen. Variety Funerals™ offers compassionate guidance and affordable cremation services.

Many people considering funeral arrangements for themselves or loved ones have questions about the cremation process. At Variety Funerals™, we understand this can be a sensitive topic, and we’re here to provide a clear and informative guide, including the detailed information you requested.

What is Cremation?

Cremation is an alternative to traditional burial. A funeral service can be held beforehand at your chosen venue, followed by the cremation itself at the crematorium. Cremation involves placing the deceased in a special furnace (called a cremator) for a few hours, resulting in bone fragments. These fragments are then processed into ashes, which can be provisioned to the family.

The Cremation Process Step-by-Step

  • Preparation and Committal: The deceased is transferred to the crematorium, where the identification process is confirmed using a nameplate on the coffin and an identity card that accompanies the body throughout the cremation process. Depending on your preferences, a a ceremony may take place before the cremation which is included in our Variety Plus package. After the committal, it often involves closing curtains or lowering the coffin from sight into the crematory chamber below. Regulations forbid the deceased to be kept at the crematorium overnight unless there’s an issue with cremation equipment or special authorisation is granted.
  • Unattended Cremations: It is becoming more common for cremations to be unattended, the Variety Solo is a direct unattended cremation meaning the coffin is transported directly to the crematorium for cremation in a dignified and respectful manner.
  • Cremation: The coffin is placed into the cremator chamber, a process known as charging. Air is then forced into the chamber, and the cremation process begins. The temperature can reach up to 1100°C, depending on the size of the body and any items placed in the coffin. A secondary chamber is used to burn off smoke, gases, and CO2, acting as a form of pollution control to eliminate emissions. This process can take up to 3 hours.
  • Cooling and Processing: After cremation, the remaining bone fragments are removed from the cremator and cooled. These fragments are then ground into a fine, sand-like substance commonly referred to as ashes. To prevent any mixing of ashes, the same identification card used throughout the process is used again to ensure the collected ashes belong to the correct deceased.
  • Returning the Ashes: The cremated remains are placed in a eco-friendly container or urn (depending on your selection) and provided to the family. Variety Funerals™ can assist with the collection or delivery of ashes. Alternatively the ashes can be scattered in the gardens of remembrance at the crematorium

Important Considerations

  • Timeframe: The cremation process typically takes place within 2-3 weeks after death, depending on the necessary paperwork. This timeframe can vary based on the legal requirements to obtain a Certificate for Cremation (“green form”). Variety Funerals™ can answer any questions you may have regarding this timeframe and potentially expedite the process if needed.
  • Paperwork: Certain legal documents are required for cremation to proceed. These typically include:
    • Certificate for Cremation (“green form”): Issued by the registrar when the death is registered, this form is required before the cremation can take place. When a post-mortem has taken place a Cremation Form 6 issued by the coroner is used instead.
    • Application for Cremation (Cremation Form 1): Issued by your chosen funeral director or crematorium, most professionals will offer assistance in filling out this form to ensure it’s completed correctly which must be signed by a family member (usually the neck of kin) or executor.
    • Authorisation of Cremation (Cremation Form 10): Completed by medical referees, this form confirms the cremation meets regulations and the cause of death has been established.

Variety Funerals™ – Your Trusted Partner

Planning a cremation can be a complex process. Variety Funerals™ offers compassionate guidance and support throughout every step. Our dedicated consultants are available 24/7 to answer your questions and ensure a dignified and respectful farewell for your loved one.

We can also help with:

  • Cost-effective cremation packages: We offer transparent pricing to make cremation services accessible.
  • Nationwide coverage: Variety Funerals™ operates across mainland England and Wales, ensuring we can assist you regardless of your location.
  • Alternatives to traditional viewings: We offer various options to celebrate a life without a traditional viewing, such as tree planting and online tributes.

History of Cremation

While cremation is a common practice today, it has a long and interesting history:

  • Ancient Cremation Practices: Burning bodies as a form of burial has been around since ancient times. Open-air cremations, known as funeral pyres, were once commonplace but are now illegal in most countries due to environmental concerns and cultural sensitivities.

Sati Practice (India & Nepal)

It’s important to acknowledge a historical practice called Sati, which involved the widow of a deceased husband volunteering to be burned alive on the funeral pyre. This was a controversial practice that has thankfully been outlawed in most parts of the world.

  • Legalisation of Cremation in the UK: Cremation was uncommon in the UK until the late 19th century. The Cremation Act of 1902 established regulations for crematoria and legalised the practice. Interestingly, this act wasn’t primarily concerned with environmental issues but rather preventing the creation of a private cremation industry and concerns about property rights.
  • Modern Cremators: Modern crematoria use specially designed furnaces to ensure efficient and environmentally responsible cremation.

Cremation Today

Cremation has become a widely accepted funeral practice due to several factors:

  • Cost-Effectiveness: Cremation is generally a more affordable option compared to traditional burial, which often involves cemetery plot costs and ongoing maintenance fees.
  • Environmental Considerations: Cremation requires less land compared to burial and avoids the environmental impact of embalming chemicals used in traditional burials.
  • Religious and Cultural Acceptance: Cremation is accepted by many religions and cultures worldwide.

Conclusion

Variety Funerals™ understands that cremation is a personal choice for many families. We are committed to providing dignified and respectful cremation services that meet your needs and budget. We can answer any questions you may have about the cremation process or planning a meaningful farewell for your loved one.

Contact Variety Funerals™ Today

Let Variety Funerals™ help you navigate the cremation process with confidence. Get in touch with us today on 0800 774 7804 or explore our website to learn more about our services.

Additional Resources

  • Funeral Guide: Included in Variety VIP is our free guides for more information on funeral arrangements and what to do when someone has died.
  • FAQs: Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page to find answers to common enquiries about cremation and funeral planning.

We hope this comprehensive guide has been helpful. Please don’t hesitate to contact Variety Funerals™ if you have any further questions.