Cremation in Essex

A.R. Adams > Funeral Services > Cremation Essex

The descion between burial and cremation is difficult but necessary to make. We have put together some information that will help to inform you about the cremation process and the event of cremation itself.

Is cremation more expensive than burial?
No. Generally the cost of a grave is much higher than the fee charged for cremation. The only additional charge for cremation arises from two doctors certificates that are issued and need to be paid for (this cost does not apply if the Coroner becomes involved.)

What religious ceremonies can I have with a cremation?
The services for burial and cremation are the same apart from the committal sentences that are said. The service may take place at your own place of worship followed by a short committal service at the crematorium, or you may prefer to have the whole service at the crematorium chapel. Alternatively, you may prefer a civil ceremony to be conducted, or even no service at all.

How is a cremation arranged?
The Cremation Regulations are complex and many people approach a Funeral Director immediately after death occurs and advise them that they wish to arrange a cremation. The Funeral Director will ensure that all the necessary documentation for cremation is obtained and then presented to the Crematorium.

What is ‘The Inspection of Certificates’?
By law two doctors are required to complete a certificate for cremation. The applicant for cremation is allowed to inspect the certificates. If the applicant wishes to view the certificates then no appointment can be made at the crematorium until they have been inspected.

Can a cremation be arranged without the services of a Funeral Director?
Yes. An Executor may arrange the cremation service themselves. Cremation authorities will provide advice to persons arranging a cremation without the use of a Funeral Director.

Can relatives witness the committal of the coffin to the cremator?
Yes. The Crematorium must be informed that you wish to witness the committal when the cremation is booked. This is so that staff can be informed and they will then make the necessary preparations on the day.

How soon after the service will the cremation take place?
The ICCM Guiding Principles state that cremation should be commenced no later than 72 hours after the service of committal. Where cremation may not be carried out on the same day, the Applicant for Cremation shall be notified. This means that under normal circumstances the cremation is usually carried out shortly after the service and certainly on the same day.

Is the coffin cremated with the body?
Yes. The ICCM Guiding Principles state that the container and the body shall be placed in
cremator and cremation commenced. The coffin or container used shall not be opened or otherwise disturbed, other than in exceptional circumstances, and then only with the express permission and in the presence of the Applicant for Cremation.

Are coffins sold back to Funeral Directors?
No. The coffin and the body inside it are cremated together.

Can more than one body be cremated at a time?
No. Each cremation is carried out separately. The aperture through which the coffin passes in the cremator and the cremation chamber are of dimensions that will only safely accept one coffin. Exceptions can be made in the case of a mother and baby or small twin children, so long as the next of kin or executor has made this specific request.

How are cremated remains kept separate?
A cremator can only accept one coffin at a time and all the remains are blown out of the cremator before the next cremation. An Identification card is used throughout the whole process
until the final disposal, thereby ensuring
separation and correct identification.

What usually happens after the cremation is finished?
All fragments and all non-consumed metal items are placed into a stainless steel cooling pan located in the back of the cremation chamber. All non-consumed items such as metal from clothing and hip joints are divided from the cremated remains. Items such as dental gold are non-recoverable and are commingled in with the cremated remains. Remaining fragments are then processed in a machine to a consistent size and placed into a temporary polyurn.

What do cremated remains look like?
Cremated remains bear a resemblance to coarse sand and are pasty white in colour. The remains of a normal size adult usually weigh between four to six kgs.

What happens after cremation?
The law relating to cremation requires that cremated remains are disposed of in accordance with the written instructions of the applicant (usually the executor or nearest relative). Most crematoria have a range of options which might include scattering or burying in the Garden of Remembrance, placing in a columbarium or interring in a small family vault or niche. Should a crematorium not be contacted with a decision after a period of time has elapsed you may receive a letter asking you if you are ready to go ahead with disposal. If you are not, simply tell the crematorium that you need more time (a fee may be applicable). Should a crematorium receive no reply to their letter they may legally scatter or bury the cremated remains within their grounds after giving 2 weeks written notice.

Can I have a memorial if I choose cremation?
Yes. There are options for memorial plaques beneath rose bushes, trees or shrubs and
memorial benches with plaques. You may also have an entry inscribed in a book of
remembrance. Your nearest crematorium will provide details of their facilities. Cremated remains may also be buried in family graves that are full for coffined burials. It is also possible to purchase a cremated remains grave where a memorial can be erected.