Alternative Ceremonies
Some questions answered
The ways we say goodbye to a loved one have changed over the last few years and you might be looking for something different that fits you, your values or a loved one's wishes. Often people are not aware of what is 'allowed' or possible. Surprisingly, England and the UK have very few rules about funerals and end-of-life rituals and services. This page explores what is possible with links to appropriate websites.
I recommend www.scattering-ashes.co.uk for exploring ways to scatter ashes as they have a lot of really useful information.
Regulations and Regulatory Bodies
In the UK, funeral directors do not need to be licensed by law. However, many are members of professional organisations such as the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) or The National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF), which establish service standards.
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Most families hire a funeral director, though it is legal to arrange a funeral without one.
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You are not legally required to have a funeral in the UK. It is mandatory to register a death and arrange for the body to be dealt with (burial, cremation, or another lawful method) however, a formal funeral service is not obligatory.
You can bury a loved one on private land, like a garden, if you own the property and comply with specific environmental and public health regulations. It is essential to inform the local council and consider the safety of groundwater.
​Natural and Green Burials: are becoming increasingly popular. Natural burial grounds often have specific environmental guidelines regarding biodegradable coffins and the use of land.
Cremations must take place in a licensed crematorium.
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Human Tissue Authority (HTA): Regulates body donations for medical science.
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Environmental Agency: Oversees environmental impacts of burials and cremations.
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Scattering Ashes
Viking Funeral, Fireworks, Space,
At Sea, By Drone or Hot Air balloon
Bowmen firing burning arrows onto a longboat is an image that has captured our imaginations. Cost and regulations mean that is unlikely you will be able to arrange this but there are other options that can give you or a loved one a chance to journey to Valhalla.
Ashes can be put into a miniature longboat replica and then set on fire before floating out into the horizon before slowly sinking.
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Advice on GOV.UK is
If you scatter ashes across surface water you should:
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make sure the effect on the environment and wildlife is minimal and not affect other watercourse users
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not include casting wreaths or memorabilia as they may harm the environment and wildlife
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If you or a loved one have an interest in space or simply want to go out with a 'bang' there are many options available.
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You can have your ashes made into Fireworks
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Or have your ashes blasted into space for one final incredible journey.
A burial at sea requires a marine license issued by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO).
This license ensures that the burial complies with environmental and navigational safety standards.
There are three designated burial sites in the UK:
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Off The Needles, Isle of Wight (South Coast of England)
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Off Tynemouth, North Tyneside (Northeast England)
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Off Newhaven, East Sussex
Burials must occur at one of these designated locations to protect marine ecosystems.
Burials at sea can be costly, an alternative would be to scatter ashes from a boat or ship.
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