Clarification on completing Form Cremation 1

A number of funeral directors have contacted the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) with concerns about the difficulties some applicants may encounter when completing Form Cremation 1.

After careful consideration, the MOJ has decided that funeral directors may continue to complete the application form on their client’s behalf, providing that:

• They discuss the contents of the form with the client prior to or at the time of completion
• The client is able to confirm that the details on the form are accurate and
• The client is able to sign the form.

Cremation authorities and their referees will need to be satisfied that the form has been fully and accurately completed, and to reject any form where they are not so satisfied.

Where the applicant has difficulties in understanding the requirements of the form or signing it, it may be appropriate to consider whether anyone else may apply for the cremation. Regulation 15 of the Cremation Act 2008 describes who may make an application for cremation.