Direct cremation

Like many independent funeral directors, we offer a direct cremation option for those who prefer a simple, unattended service. There can sometimes be confusion about what a direct cremation involves, so we aim to provide clear information to help families make the right choice for their needs.

Direct cremation is available both through national providers and through your local funeral director. By choosing a local provider, you have the reassurance of knowing exactly where your loved one will be cared for. They will be brought into our care at our local head office, where they are looked after with dignity and respect throughout the process

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Direct Cremation From £1,400

A Direct Cremation...

Includes

  • Our experienced team will handle all necessary arrangements with compassion and respect.
  • We will collect your loved one from a local address during office hours and transport them to our private mortuary.
  • Your loved one will be cared for in our private mortuary until the cremation takes place.
  • We will dress your loved one in provided clothes, or a robe.
  • We will coordinate with the crematorium to schedule the cremation at a time that suits us.
  • A basic coffin is provided for the cremation.
  • The ashes will be returned to you in a simple container, or we can assist with scattering them if preferred.

Does not include

  • Embalming: As there is no viewing, embalming is not performed.
  • Viewing or Visitation: There is no provision for family or friends to visit the deceased in our chapel of rest.
  • Funeral Ceremony: No formal funeral service or ceremony is conducted prior to the cremation.
  • Choice of Cremation Time or Date: The scheduling of the cremation is at the company's discretion.
  • Additional Services: Options such as floral tributes, obituary notices, or memorial services are not included but can be arranged separately if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a direct cremation?

A direct cremation is the simplest form of cremation. The deceased is collected and brought into our care at one of our local head offices. We assist you in completing the necessary paperwork, which can be done online or over the phone if needed.

We arrange the cremation, notify you of the date, dress your loved one in the clothes of your choosing, and provide a Kendal Coffin. Once the cremation is complete, the ashes will be available for collection from either the crematorium or one of our branches.

Will I have the opportunity to say a proper goodbye?

A direct cremation does not include a viewing or attendance at the cremation. However, once you receive the ashes, you may choose to hold a service or gathering with family and friends to honour your loved one.

Why choose a local funeral director over a larger nationwide company?

One of the key benefits of using a local funeral director is the flexibility to adjust your arrangements if you change your mind. Additional services can be added for a fee, such as viewing the deceased, altering the cremation arrangements, or having a small service.

At some of our larger branches, we have spacious chapels and service halls, including our Beckton branch, which can accommodate both small and larger gatherings. Because these services take place on our premises, we can offer them at a more affordable cost.

You also have the option to personalize the farewell by adding a simple flower or floral arrangement to the coffin, or by bringing in notes, letters, or small belongings for us to place in the coffin with your loved one.

Questions that we recommend you ask when researching Direct or Pure Cremations

Care & Location of the Deceased

  • Where will my loved one be taken after collection?
  • Will they remain in your care locally, or will they be transported elsewhere?
  • Can I visit my loved one before the cremation?

Coffin & Preparation

  • What type of coffin will be provided?
  • Will my loved one be dressed in their own clothes, or is a gown provided?
  • Can I place personal items, such as letters or small mementos, in the coffin?

Cremation Process & Transparency

  • Where will the cremation take place?
  • Will I be informed of the cremation date in advance?
  • Can I choose the crematorium used?
  • How soon after collection will the cremation take place?

Attendance & Farewell Options

  • Is it possible to witness or attend the cremation?
  • Do you offer a chapel or venue for a small farewell service?
  • Can I upgrade the service later if I change my mind?

Ashes & Collection

  • How and when will the ashes be returned?
  • Can I collect them from a local branch, or will they be sent by post?
  • Are there any additional fees for ashes collection or delivery?

Pricing & Additional Costs

  • What is included in the price?
  • Are there any hidden or additional costs I should be aware of?
  • Can I add optional services, such as a viewing or a small service, for an extra fee?

Reputation & Reliability

  • Are you an independent funeral director or part of a larger corporation?
  • How long have you been providing direct cremation services?
  • Can I read reviews or testimonials from families who have used your service?

We hope that you find this information useful.

Arrange a direct cremation

Setting the highest standards for funeral services, facilities and care in Essex & London

At T. Cribb & Sons, we spend time getting to know you; respecting and honouring your loved one's final wishes. Each and every one of our Funeral Directors will be by your side to listen, advise and guide you through all your options.

Families choose us because the little details matter to us just as much as they matter to you.  We understand this is one of the most difficult times in your life, and we’re here to look after you and your loved one as if you were a member of our own family.

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