Co-op Funeralcare will be offering a direct to cremation service in response to a shift in consumers’ choices.
The Group says the new service is for those who would like a simpler choice for their funeral without compromising on high standards of care.
Direct to cremation does not include a service. The alternative suits families who want to have a separate memorial service or more personal farewell instead, scattering the ashes at a place their loved ones was fond of.
This option also costs less than half the price of traditional funerals, which have doubled in price over the last decade.
Demand for direct cremations has been increasing from 0.3% in 2015 to 5% at present. A growing number of British people are choosing to have no funeral and be directly cremated with no mourners present.
Earlier this month the Co-op launched a nationwide survey into dying and bereavement. The study will gather opinions from consumers, funeral directors, charities and Co-op members, asking for their views on death, bereavement and funeral wishes.
An initial research by the Co-op revealed that 53% of people believe more open conversations about death, dying and bereavement would have helped them to cope with the loss of a loved one.
