How a Direct Cremation Works
At
Cambridgeshire Direct Cremations, we believe simplicity can still be deeply respectful.
This page explains
how our direct cremation process works — from your first call to the safe return of your loved one’s ashes. Every step is handled with care by our family-run team, offering peace of mind and dignity throughout.
Step 1: Making Contact
When you get in touch, our experienced team will gently guide you through what’s needed. We’ll take details about your loved one and answer any immediate questions about the direct cremation process.
There’s no rush or pressure — just understanding and support. We’ll also confirm our fixed-price service, so you know exactly what’s included from the start.
Step 2: Care and Collection
Once arrangements are confirmed, we collect your loved one and bring them into our professional care. This is done respectfully, 24 hours a day, across Cambridgeshire and nearby areas.
From this point, our team oversees every aspect of the direct cremation arrangements, ensuring your loved one is treated with the utmost dignity.
Step 3: Paperwork and Preparation
Our staff handle all required documentation and liaise with the crematorium on your behalf. You’ll be kept informed throughout, so you understand each part of the cremation process without needing to worry about administrative details.
Once the necessary paperwork is complete, a date for the unattended cremation will be confirmed.
Step 4: The Unattended Cremation
A direct cremation is carried out privately, with no service or attendees present. This allows the cremation to take place with simplicity and respect, without additional ceremony or cost.
Your loved one’s ashes are then carefully prepared for return. Families often choose to hold a memorial or celebration later, in their own time and way.
Step 5: Returning the Ashes
After the cremation process is complete, we will arrange the safe return of your loved one’s ashes. You may collect them from us directly or have them hand-delivered within Cambridgeshire.
Many families choose to scatter ashes in a meaningful place or keep them at home in a simple urn. Whatever you choose, our team remains available for continued support.
Why Choose Our Process
- Fixed-fee with no hidden extras
- Professional, respectful care from start to finish
- Clear communication and guidance at every stage
- Flexible arrangements for memorials and ashes return
- Local, family-run service you can trust
We handle everything with compassion and transparency, so you can focus on remembering your loved one in the way that feels right.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the direct cremation process take?
The direct cremation process usually takes between one and two weeks from first contact to the return of ashes. This timeframe allows for all legal paperwork, the cremation itself, and respectful preparation of ashes. We keep families informed every step of the way. Our aim is to make this process as smooth and stress-free as possible, offering care and dignity throughout.
Can I choose where the cremation takes place?
We work with a network of trusted crematoria across Cambridgeshire to ensure respectful and professional care. Families usually cannot choose the exact crematorium, as this depends on scheduling and logistics. However, all our partner crematoria uphold the same high standards. Each cremation is handled privately, with no service or attendance, maintaining dignity at all times.
Do I need to be present during the cremation?
No — a direct cremation is completely unattended, which means there is no service or family presence at the crematorium. This simplicity helps reduce costs while maintaining dignity. Families are free to hold a separate gathering, scattering, or memorial once ashes are returned. It allows you to remember your loved one in a way that feels personal and meaningful.
What happens to the ashes afterwards?
After the cremation, ashes are carefully collected and placed in a biodegradable urn or simple container. You may collect them from our team or request delivery to your home. Families often choose to scatter ashes somewhere meaningful or keep them as a lasting remembrance. Whatever your preference, we’ll make sure everything is handled respectfully and safely.
Can I personalise anything in the process?
Yes. While the cremation itself is unattended, you have complete freedom to arrange personal touches afterwards. Many families choose to hold a private ceremony, scatter ashes at a meaningful location, or keep them in a personalised urn. We can also guide you towards local memorial options and keepsakes if you’d like to create something special in memory of your loved one.
Speak to Our Team
If you’d like to talk through how our direct cremation process works, please contact our friendly team today.
We’re available day or night to answer questions, offer guidance, and provide honest pricing with
no hidden costs.
