Brits are being warned to examine the small print when arranging funeral plans to prevent being transported miles away and housed in enormous mortuaries. Funeral provider Simplicity Cremations says families shouldn't be forced to accept care far from home or surrender control over the cremation location simply to reduce expenses.
Three questions to ask before buying
The appeal for Brits to question their funeral providers comes as Simplicity Cremations reveals that some firms are moving bodies hundreds of miles to be kept in large-scale mortuaries. Simplicity is urging anyone purchasing a funeral plan to pose three straightforward questions: first, where will I or my loved one be looked after, and how near is that to home? Second, will I or my loved one have any input into which crematorium is chosen? Finally, is there provision for my family to pay their respects?
For those who've already arranged a funeral plan, they're encouraging people to put the same questions to their provider. They're also recommending people verify whether the arrangements still match their preferences, especially regarding local care, crematorium selection and the opportunity for family to say their farewells.
New plan focuses on local care
Simplicity Cremations has now introduced a new plan focused on care closer to home called The Simple Celebration. It expands upon the original direct cremation service by allowing families the opportunity to come together for a brief, intimate farewell as well. The plan includes a separate 20-minute, family-led celebration with the coffin present, for up to 25 guests with music, readings and tributes.
Through the Life Services Group's network of 545 funeral directors, 200 care centres and 45 crematoria, families are able to keep care close to home while having a say in which crematorium is used. The launch follows findings from Simplicity's Great British Send-Off Report, which revealed that 71% of Brits are seeking greater choice beyond the two options most people are aware of - an unattended direct cremation or a full traditional funeral.
Research shows demand for more choice
The research discovered that a third (33%) would opt for a short, family-led celebration such as Simplicity's new plan, over a traditional funeral (24%) or an unattended direct cremation (19%). As part of the Life Services Group, Simplicity Cremations claims to have access to one of the UK's largest crematorium networks, enabling it to oversee every aspect of the process while providing care on a local level.
Zack Sullivan, Managing Director of Simplicity Cremations, said: "Direct cremation helped make funerals more affordable. Its next chapter should give people more control. Affordability shouldn't come at the expense of choice, connection or the chance to say goodbye."
"Some people want an unattended cremation, and that choice should be respected. Others want a few people together, a favourite song and the chance to say something about the person they love. The Simple Celebration gives them that without losing local care."
"Someone may spend their whole life in one community. Their final journey should still feel connected to it. These are the details that matter most when someone dies, so they should be clear when the plan is bought, not discovered when it's needed."
For more information, visit the Simplicity Cremations website.
