New research from the Cremation Society has raised important questions about how funerals are experienced by families across the UK.
Commissioned to mark the Society’s 150th anniversary, the research involved nine focus groups and a survey of 1,598 adults. It found that most people had a positive experience during their most recent visit to a crematorium.
However, it also highlighted concerns about short services, limited time between funerals and families feeling rushed.
Some 42 per cent of respondents agreed that crematoria try to hold too many services each day. Participants spoke of being kept waiting outside, being hurried out at the end or having to shorten readings because a service was running late. The report describes this as a perceived “conveyor belt” experience.
Many independent funeral directors already work hard to make funerals personal. But there is more to do.
The findings suggest that attended funerals built around a short crematorium slot and a familiar order of service risk feeling like a conveyor-belt experience.
If families see an attended funeral as fixed, impersonal or poor value, some will understandably question whether it is right for them. This may be one reason why direct cremation appeals to a growing number of people.
Yet, while direct cremation is seen as a valid choice, the report found that more than half of those who would choose it for themselves did so because they did not want a fuss. Others cited cost or said they would prefer their family to gather separately.
No one should assume that “no fuss” means no farewell. It may mean that people do not want the familiar format they associate with an attended funeral.
An opportunity for independents to make a real difference
This is where independent funeral directors can make a difference. Rather than offering a choice between a traditional crematorium service and no service at all, we can help families consider other ways to come together, remember and say goodbye.
This does not mean that everyone needs an attended service at a crematorium. It does suggest that families should have the opportunity to consider whether they would value another way to come together.
That could be a private viewing, a small service before an unattended cremation or a memorial held later. It might take place in a funeral director’s service room, a place of worship or another local venue.
Terry Tennens, SAIF Chief Executive, said:
“The report is a challenge to all of us involved in arranging and delivering funerals.
“Direct cremation is a valid choice and will be right for some people. But we should also ask whether parts of the traditional funeral have become too fixed and whether they are meeting the needs of families today.
“If families feel that an attended funeral means following a standard format within a short time slot, we need to offer them more. The choice should not simply be between a traditional funeral and no service at all.
“Many independent funeral directors are already offering more personal and flexible choices. We need to build on that work and make sure families understand the different ways they can come together, remember and say goodbye.
“A funeral does not need to be elaborate. It needs to feel right for the family and provide a fitting way to remember someone important to them.”
The report also raises specific concerns about cremation capacity in Northern Ireland.
Ross Anderson, President of SAIF Scotland and Northern Ireland (SSNI), said:
“The report clearly identifies serious concerns about cremation capacity in Northern Ireland. SSNI has raised these concerns with the Stormont All-Party Group and with members.”
The report also points to areas where families need better information. Myths remain about the cremation process, including what happens to the coffin and whether ashes could be mixed. Some families are also unsure what to do with ashes, particularly where wishes have not been discussed.
Independent funeral directors have an important role here. They can explain the choices clearly, help families discuss what they want and continue to offer support after the cremation has taken place.
This reflects the principles of SAIF’s national #HandledWithCare campaign, which supports clear information and open conversations about the care people receive throughout the funeral process.
There is also a need for funeral directors, crematorium operators and local authorities to work together. The report recommends longer service times, more space between funerals and consideration of evening and weekend provision.
Not all these changes will be straightforward. Crematoria are working under pressure and the report recognises the commitment of their teams. However, families should have enough time to arrive, take part in the service and leave without feeling hurried.
Independent funeral directors are well placed to help move funerals beyond a familiar template. They know their communities and can offer relevant choices, for example, non-traditional venues like football grounds and local parks, that reflect the life being remembered and the needs of family and friends.