Monica Hayden, an 80-year-old from Merriott, Somerset, found solace and savings after the passing of her husband David, 86, by opting for a direct cremation—a growing trend among Britons seeking more affordable farewell options.
David had wished for a direct cremation, a process where the body is cremated without a formal funeral service or attendees present. Instead, Monica and her family held a heartfelt church service and a joyful wake, honoring David’s life and the many people he touched, including the local youth football team he managed. The celebration cost them just £2,000.
Reflecting on the experience, Monica explained, “It was all just a service to celebrate the life that he’d led, all his life.” Inspired by the dignified and considerably cheaper process, she chose a direct cremation for herself as well. Monica had previously arranged a £6,700 funeral plan but requested a refund to switch to the more straightforward option. The company approved her request, returning £5,000.
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Monica’s story has resonated with many. “My friend lost her husband and praised the direct cremation service,” she said. “Since then, lots of people I know have chosen it. My sister and a friend both decided to go with direct cremation instead of a traditional funeral.”
She questioned the high costs associated with conventional funerals, saying, “I just don’t see what warrants all those thousands and thousands of pounds.” Monica describes the traditional service as often somber but felt David’s day was filled with happiness, reflecting his kind and generous nature. He was a devoted foster dad and a loving husband who shared what he had with others.
Supporting Monica’s experience, research from Pure Cremation highlights that average burial funerals cost £6,065, which is £1,833 more than average cremations at £4,232. Funeral director charges vary widely across the UK, with some services costing as much as £4,485, while others charge as little as £812. Ian Atkinson, marketing director at Pure Cremation, emphasizes the lack of transparency in pricing, noting that hidden costs can confuse families during a very difficult time.
The financial burden is driving more families to consider alternative arrangements, with rising costs fueled by increasing crematorium charges, pricier coffins, and the overall cost-of-living crisis. SunLife reports that the average cost of a traditional attended funeral grew by 5.3% last year to £4,510. Many families experience financial strain, often turning to crowdfunding or loans to cover expenses.
Monica Hayden’s experience is a poignant example of how simpler, heartfelt farewells can honor loved ones without the heavy financial burden—offering dignity, celebration, and peace of mind in challenging times.