Direct cremation

Direct cremation is a less expensive option when planning funeral arrangements for your loved one. Coffin and third-party crematorium fee is included, there is nothing more to pay.

You can view our full pricing information including our range of funeral services packages and the additional options available by clicking here.

We also offer a pre-paid plan for direct cremation, meaning that you can pre-arrange and pay for an unattended simple cremation, at no additional expense when the time comes.

• Our full professional services, including making all necessary arrangements, taking care of official documentation, advice and guidance on certification and registration.
• We will collect your loved one up to 30 miles from one of our branches and care for them in one of our Chapels of Rest 
• Your loved one will be dressed in a simple gown and we will provide a wood effect veneered coffin 
• Your loved one will be transported to the crematorium by private ambulance 
• An unattended cremation 
• Return of your loved one’s ashes to your local East of England Co-op Funeral Services branch
• A personalised quotation on the price from your Funeral Arranger based on your choices and local charges

• Visiting your loved one whilst we care for them in one of our Chapels of Rest
• Attendance of your loved one’s cremation
• Choosing the date or time of your loved one’s cremation
• No services can be changed or added, including changes to your loved one’s coffin
• There will be additional charges for a total transport distance of over 30 miles from one of our branches 

Can you attend a direct cremation​?

You will not be able to attend a direct cremation - instead, a simple unattended cremation will take place.

How long does a direct cremation take? 

The timeframe can vary due to different factors, such as schedules and logistics. Once your loved one is transported to the crematorium, the actual cremation process generally takes several hours. From the moment of passing to the return of the cremated remains to the family, the entirety of this process typically spans one to two weeks.

How much is a direct cremation?

Direct cremation fees begin at £1,495. Detailed pricing information is available for each local branch.

Can you pay for direct cremation in advance? 

Yes, you can pay for a simple cremation for yourself or a loved one in advance using our pre-paid plan, meaning families won’t have to pay any additional charges for the funeral. 

Do you need a coffin for a direct cremation?

Our simple oak effect veneer coffin is included in the cost of a direct cremation. 

What is the difference between a direct cremation and a traditional funeral? 

A direct cremation is unattended, unlike a traditional funeral, which family members and mourners are able to attend. Our traditional funeral service also offers families greater flexibility and a wider range of choices when planning their loved one’s farewell. 

Do you need a funeral director for a direct cremation?

Yes, our funeral directors organise everything on the day of your loved one’s simple cremation, as well as taking care of any preparations and caring for your loved one at one of our Chapels of Rest. One of our team will be your point of contact throughout the process. 

Is a direct cremation right for me?

This option provides a simple, respectful service at a lower cost, and is more affordable than funerals that include a ceremony. It is ideal for those who would rather have no funeral, just a cremation. Some families choose to arrange a simple cremation for their loved one, and then organise their own separate celebration of life or memorial ceremony at a time that works for everyone. 

What is another name for direct cremation? 

A direct cremation is also known as a simple, unattended or basic cremation or a ‘no funeral cremation’. 

We can help you remember a loved one in many ways, from creating delicate jewellery to our hand crafted masonry offering our arrangers can guide you through the best options tailored to you and your loved one.