Cremation Services
Did you know that in the UK, 77% of all funerals are cremations rather than burials, according to recent research? If you’re not sure what to expect at a cremation funeral service, H.J. Newington is on hand 24/7 to advise and offer support and guidance.
The choice between a burial or cremation may be influenced by several factors, including tradition, religious or non-religious reasons or the wishes of the person who has died.
What is a cremation?
Cremation is the process by which a person who has died is turned into ashes. Once the cremation has taken place, your loved ones’ ashes are returned to you to scatter or keep. It’s a popular choice, with cremation making up 85% of the funerals that we arrange at H.J. Newington.
Where does the cremation take place?
The cremation usually takes place at a local crematorium nearby, where you can also have the time for the funeral service. Alternatively, you can have the funeral service at a place of worship and then have a shorter service called a ‘committal’ at the crematorium.
What paperwork do I need for a cremation?
You need two forms to arrange a cremation.
1. An Application for Cremation, also known as a Cremation Form 1.
This is usually drafted by the funeral director, who will assist the Next Of Kin in completing the form, and Our funeral director will then pass it to the local crematorium once completed. The person who signs this form is the only one who can collect or nominate someone to collect the ashes.
2. Certificate for Cremation, also known as a Green Form.
A Green Form is given to the family by the registry office when registering the death.
With the temporary changes to the Cremation (England and Wales) Regulations 2008 to the Coronavirus Act 2020, our funeral director will help you in completing the application form and arranging for any other forms that are needed.
What is a cremation certificate?
The cremation certificate is known as the green form. You should obtain this when registering the death of a loved one.
What is a cremation application?
The application for cremation authorises the process to take place. It’s often referred to as Form 1 in England and Wales. It should be completed by a relative or close family friend of the deceased and sent to the Cremation Authority by your funeral director.
If you’re reading this because you want to arrange a funeral for cremation, this application form can be obtained by visiting your local council or can be downloaded directly from the council website or below.
What about medical certificates?
The Crematorium Authority will often require two medical certificates from two separate doctors. The Medical Certificate of Cause of Death must be signed by a doctor who has visited the deceased and determined the cause of death.
The Confirmatory Medical Certificate must be signed by a second independent doctor who must also certify the fact and cause of death, but due to the current climate, we only need to obtain one doctor’s signature for the cremation for 4.
What happens if the coroner is involved in the process?
If a coroner is involved in the cremation process, you will not be required to provide medical certificates. In England and Wales, the funeral director will be given a Form 6 by a coroner. Find out more about a coroner’s involvement.
How long is a cremation service?
A cremation service usually lasts around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the crematorium. However, a longer time slot can be arranged if needed.
What happens at a cremation service
At the start of the service, the funeral director’s pallbearers will draw the deceased from the hearse, once ready, the deceased will be placed on their shoulder and carry the deceased’s coffin into the crematorium. As a family, you can decide whether you want people standing outside or seated inside as the coffin enters the crematorium.
The deceased coffin will be placed on the catafalque and remain on the catafalque whilst the service takes place.
Depending on your faith and culture, the officiant or celebrant will hold the service, which usually includes readings, eulogies, poems and music. Some crematoria have curtains that can be closed at the end of the service; however, this is also a decision made by the family.
If you wish to play a loved one’s favourite piece of music during the service, most crematoria will be able to facilitate this for you. Some crematoria also have video streaming facilities available, allowing absent family and friends to watch the cremation service live on the internet.
When it comes to the end of the service, it is known as the committal, and the curtains close the coffin giving the family the sense of a final farewell.
After the cremation service, the funeral director will lead the close family out of the chapel, followed by other mourners. If you would prefer the coffin to remain on view until everyone has left the chapel, our caring professionals can arrange that for you.
What is the cremation process?
Following the funeral service, a cremation will always take place on the same day as the service, usually within a few hours. A close family member may witness the ‘charging’ of the cremators, as some religions require subject to the crematorium. Every cremation is carried out in line with the Cremation Code of Practice.
Should you need more information regarding cremation services, please do not hesitate to contact our caring, compassionate and professional staff at 01273 030717, where we offer a 24 Hour Service, 365 days a year.
Crematoriums
For those who choose cremation, we can also provide advice and support when it comes to choosing a crematorium. We work with a range of local crematoriums and can help you find the perfect location for your loved one’s service.
Our team can provide guidance on everything from choosing the right urn to arranging for the scattering of ashes. We understand that every family’s needs are different, which is why we work closely with you to ensure that your loved one’s final wishes are honoured.
At H J Newington Independent Funeral Directors, we are committed to providing our clients with compassionate and comprehensive support during this difficult time. Contact us today to learn more about our cemetery and crematorium services.
Worthing Crematorium
Horsham Road
Findon
West Sussex
BN14 0RQ
Surrey & Sussex Crematorium
Balcombe Road
Crawley
West Sussex
RH10 3NQ
Eastbourne Crematorium & Cemetery
Hide Hollow
Langney
Eastbourne
BN23 8AE
More information...
The below pages will give you related information about other types of funeral and how we can help support you.