Direct or unattended cremations have experienced a surge in popularity since March 2020. Catalysed by the pandemic and subsequently fuelled by the cost of living crisis, the number of direct cremations in the UK jumped from 3% of all funerals in 2019 to 18% in 2022.

An unattended event without service or ceremony, whereby the deceased is taken alone to the crematorium and ashes returned to the family at a later date, direct cremations offer a low-cost, low-fuss option for grieving families.

Here at William Purves Funeral Directors, we have witnessed a rise in inquiries for this type of funeral in recent years. However, we have also seen a clear lack of understanding about what direct cremations really mean for bereaved families.

We are not alone in this. The Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors has suggested a public ignorance around the realities of direct cremations, with the potential of leaving a harmful legacy for families and friends.

Direct cremations are frequently advertised as no-frills, low-admin options for individuals who do not want a fuss and would prefer a basic funeral. Yet this does not convey the reality.

With no option for a service or ceremony, and little to no input from family or friends, direct cremations prevent mourners from saying a personal goodbye to the deceased. There is no opportunity to visit the coffin or pay respects, the cremation taking place in a facility and at a time convenient to the funeral director.

In this way, direct cremations minimise mourners’ opportunity to grieve. Grieving is an essential part of the bereavement process and the emotional impact of joining others to say goodbye, to share memories, to celebrate and commiserate should not be underestimated. Cutting out this ritual can leave a legacy of unresolved grief and regret for families later down the line.

It is worrying to see direct cremations positioned as the answer to tackling funeral poverty in the UK, thereby eliminating choice for families who are struggling to deal with the cost of living crisis. This attempt at a "quick fix" for a deep-rooted issue does not take into account the long-term emotional consequences of losing the opportunity to properly grieve a loved one.

Families should be made aware of the alternative options available for those who want to alleviate some of the costs of a funeral. For example, funerals that do not involve attending the crematorium, or a more simplistic service that allows friends and families to get together to say goodbye, without further elaboration or adornments. This means that when a direct cremation is chosen, it is based on the genuine wishes of the deceased and not financial pressures.

It is a funeral director’s responsibility to educate consumers about the various options available to them, allowing for an informed decision to be made for themselves or on behalf of a loved one. Transparency, trust and compassion are essential factors in this process, allowing everyone to design a funeral they want - regardless of cost. Doing so affords people the choice they deserve and the chance to say goodbye in a way that feels meaningful and right for them.

Tim Purves is chairman of William Purves Funeral Directors