A Simple,
Direct Cremation
A direct cremation, also known as an unattended cremation, is a simple cremation that takes place without a funeral service or any mourners in attendance.
The Importance of Understanding Direct Cremation
Recent times have seen a significant increase in Direct Cremation advertising claiming to reduce the pain, grief and worry of expenses, but does it? It is so important to speak to your family about your wishes before making a decision and to take into consideration how they will feel. Be informed about what is included and how some national companies who advertise Direct Cremations carry out the process, most times not locally and in a manor which may not be deemed acceptable by those in the family.
We believe a funeral is for the family, friends and neighbours left and how they are affected emotionally following a death. A ceremony and coming together, however small, can play an important part in the bereavement and healing process. A simple funeral does not have to be expensive.
Today we are aware of more and more families who have experienced a direct cremation regretting it feeling there was no closure and therefore struggling to cope with the grief.
Our experienced staff are here to genuinely help, guide and advise you and your family of what the options are for you to make the right and informed choice.
A Direct Cremation with Waterhouse & Heathfield
We fully respect a families wish to have a Direct Cremation. Although of a simple nature we are pleased to carry out the process in a most personal, respectful and caring nature ensuring our high standard of service is always maintained.
We offer support and are able to include additional services with a direct cremation at reasonable charges.
Why We Are Different:
Below is a comparison table detailing what we can offer to families on a local basis, versus the national providers.
- We will clearly explain what Direct Cremation includes and does not include.
- All prices will be published and made available both in writing and online.
Care of the Deceased
- The deceased will be collected from a place of death and brought into our care in a dignified manner at the earliest opportunity.
- They will be cared for locally in a hygienic, inspected, and professional facility in accordance with the SAIF code of practice.
Timing and Location
- The cremation will be arranged once the paperwork is complete, and payment has been made. The cremation, depending on availability of the crematorium will likely take place within 7 days.
- The family will be informed of the crematorium, day and time.
Coffin and Transport
- A simple, appropriate coffin will be provided that is acceptable for cremation.
- Transport will be in a hearse, carrying only your loved one.
- The cremation will take place without ceremony or attendance, as per the definition of Direct Cremation.
- Our funeral director will be in attendance with staff to carry the coffin into the crematorium in a professional way.
C. Waterhouse & Sons & Heathfield Funeral Service
All fees for an unattended cremation locally at Wealden Crematorium, Horam
All doctors fees for cremation certificates, where required
Expert help and advice, available 24/7, from experienced staff, with knowledge of our local community
Prompt conveyance of your loved one, day or night, by our gentlemen to our local Chapel of Rest, at no extra cost*
Simple wood effect coffin
Quiet time in our local Chapel of Rest, with closed coffin
Option to send flowers to accompany the coffin for cremation, and the opportunity to have any personal mementoes placed in coffin
Cremation on an agreed date & at a time mutually agreeable to all parties, so you and your family can choose quiet reflection time, or another form of suitable recognition
Conveyance of your loved one to Wealden Crematorium, by two of our smartly dressed gentlemen in our hearse, in a dignified manner. Option to follow our hearse to, or meet hearse at, Wealden Crematorium in the grounds to offer a personal farewell and to share some private moments
Witnessed scattering of your loved one’s ashes, locally in Wealden Crematorium Garden of Remembrance, or free hand delivery of your loved ones ashes back to your family within 10 days, up to a 20 mile radius from our office.
Long standing and trusted provider of funeral services, for nearly 100 years, by our family owned, independent, local funeral directors
UK
National Providers
All fees for an unattended cremation at a crematorium, many miles away
All fees for an unattended cremation at a crematorium, many miles away
All doctors fees for cremation certificates, where required
Help and advice, available 24/7 via a national call centre
Conveyance of your loved one, day or night, at an additional cost
No choice of coffin
No viewing of your loved one, or personal time with closed coffin
No option to send flowers to accompany the coffin for cremation, or to have personal mementoes placed in coffin
Cremation on a date and time known only to the service provider
Option not available
No witnessing of ashes scattering. Delivery of ashes back to your family, but can take up to 3 weeks
Provider of direct cremation service only
Return or Scattering of Ashes
- Ashes will be collected as soon as is reasonably possible from the crematorium. They will be handled and cared for in accordance with the client’s wishes.
Documentation and Legal Compliance
- All necessary paperwork (forms, certificates, authorisations) will be completed efficiently and lawfully.
- Clients will be personally supported with clear instructions and timely updates.
Post funeral services and support
Urns
Designs range from classic and elegant to contemporary and personalised. Engraving is available on many styles.
Keepsakes
We have carefully select partners who provide thoughtful, elegant jewellery and unique keepsakes, crafted with care to help preserve cherished memories and honour loved ones.
Memorials
From traditional headstones to plaques, benches, or garden memorials, we can assist with a range of options crafted with care and guided by your wishes
Probate Support
Our Probate support partners provide expert legal and administrative guidance to those managing a loved one’s affairs or settling an estate.
Considering a Direct Cremation?
We’ll talk you through what’s involved and help you decide whether direct cremation is the right option for you or your loved one.
Words from the
Families We’ve Helped
