Cremation Information
Whether you’re experiencing the loss of a loved one for the very first time, or you’re new to the responsibility for organising a funeral and the interment of ashes, here at Tree For Life we want to help guide you through this often difficult process.
Quick Facts About Cremation
- The act of cremation was first declared legal in the UK in 1884
- In 2018, 481,712 UK cremations took place
- An estimated 70% of people choose to be cremated after their death
- Cremation is much less expensive than a traditional burial
What is Cremation?
Cremation is a well favoured alternative to a traditional ground burial that involves the controlled burning of a deceased body in a specialised chamber, usually at a crematorium.
The remains are then deposited into a machine called a Cremulator which creates a fine ash with a sand-like texture.
This is what you will receive from the crematorium, and it is at this point you can plan what you’d like to do with the cremated remains as per the wishes of your loved one, and what the family would prefer.
What Can You Do With Ashes?
Many people like to choose a place with a special meaning to ‘release’ the ashes into the air, and this can be a deeply cathartic and memorable experience. Others choose to deposit cremated remains into a stationary vault in a designated section of a cemetery which can be inscribed with details of the person.
For an Eco-friendly burial option, our Tree For Life biodegradable urns is a great way to create a living memorial by adding ashes to a bio urn with a sapling of your choice which will grow into a beautiful tree.
Where Can You Scatter Ashes?
When it comes to places to scatter ashes of a loved one, it can be a deeply personal choice, or simply the fulfillment of known wishes.
It’s worth keeping in mind laws and regulations on scattering ashes in the UK, but people generally stick to scattering ashes in a preferred cemetery or special place, such as private land or in the sea.
The laws on scattering ashes are relaxed, but if you’re hoping to dispose of them on private land, be sure to get the landowner’s permission. If you’d like somewhere to visit to remember the person, why not scatter ashes at a place that holds happy memories?
A favourite park, river, or the moors are all places that you can visit whenever you like to remember their life and feel close to them.
Can You Put Ashes Into Jewellery?
Memorial jewellery is a special way to commemorate the person you have lost.
With cremation jewellery, a small amount of ash can be securely put into a locket, cuff-links or bracelet.
Another way to put ashes into jewellery can be to opt for a specialised cremation jewellery maker who can combine ash with clear or coloured resin to create a beautiful piece of unique memorial jewellery.