Choose the type of funeral

The choice between burial and cremation is a very personal one.

Decisions may be influenced by many factors, such as family tradition, religion or the wishes of the person who has died.

It may also be your wish that they are dressed in their own clothing, or that the coffin is decorated to reflect an interest or hobby they may have enjoyed. In a burial there are fewer restrictions about the placing of possessions, choice of clothing and decoration than in a cremation. Your local Co-operative Funeralcare Funeral Director will be able to advise you on any restrictions.

Choosing a burial

There are alternatives to burial in a churchyard or cemetery, such as burial in a vault, burial at sea and woodland burials. Contact your local Co-operative Funeralcare Funeral Director for further information.

The most common form of burial is in a churchyard or cemetery. Subject to local regulations and availability, you normally have the choice between using a new or existing grave.

Existing graves

If a grave is already in existence, perhaps as part of a family plot, we will need the deeds of the grave or some documents relating to the grave. If these aren't in your possession, we can help you locate them. We will also need to check that there is space for further burials.

New graves

When purchasing a new grave, some authorities may allow you to reserve or purchase grave space next to the one to be used.

Burial fees

There may be fees for:

• Purchasing a new grave
• Opening or reopening the grave
• Removal & replacement of existing memorials

There may be a further charge if you wish to purchase the exclusive right of burial. This means that no further burials can take place in that grave without your permission. In many areas, you need to purchase the exclusive right of burial if you want to put up a memorial.

We will advise you on the local charges accordingly. 

Repatriation

If the funeral is to take place abroad, simply contact us and we can make all the necessary arrangements for you.

Choosing a cremation

If you decide to use a crematorium, you can choose between a full service or a shorter committal service.

The end of the service is usually called the committal. There may be a closing of curtains as the committal takes place, or the coffin may move gently from sight. You can discuss your wishes with your funeral arranger.

You may wish to hold a service or church or another location before holding a shorter committal service in the crematorium.  Most crematoria incorporate a service room, or you may simply wish to hold one service at the crematorium.

Whatever you decide, we can take care of the necessary arrangements for you.

Possessions, clothing & decoration of the coffin

There are some restrictions on what can be included in a committal, for example metal objects and certain materials. Your funeral director can advise on these.