Rights and options
The main requirements in England and Wales are that deaths are certified by a doctor or coroner, registered with a Registrar of Births, Marriages and Deaths, and either a burial or cremation takes place.
- you do not have to have a funeral ceremony
- you do not have to use a religious minister
- you do not have to use a funeral director
- a ceremony does not have to take place in a crematorium or place of worship
There are more options concerning the content of a funeral ceremony and its duration than many people realise. Woodland burial and other 'green options' are increasingly available.
The majority of people choose to make their arrangements through a funeral director. But some people see 'do-it-yourself' funerals as more personal and less expensive. If this approach appeals, and you have time to research and prepare, please contact us for further information. Some funeral directors are willing to help with such funerals.