Cremation in New Addington, London, UK

New Addington, a suburb in South London, offers a range of cremation services to families who have lost a loved one. In this article, we will delve into the world of cremation in New Addington, providing you with a comprehensive guide to help you make informed decisions during a difficult time.

Understanding Cremation

Cremation is a popular choice for many families in New Addington, and it's essential to understand the process before making a decision. Cremation is a method of disposing of a deceased person's body through high-temperature burning, reducing it to ashes. This process typically takes place in a crematorium, and the resulting ashes can be stored in an urn, scattered in a special location, or buried in a cemetery.

Cremation Services in New Addington

New Addington is home to several crematoriums and funeral homes that offer cremation services. These services usually include:

• Cremation ceremony: A service where family and friends gather to pay their respects to the deceased.
• Cremation process: The actual process of cremating the body.
• Urn selection: Choosing an urn to store the ashes.
• Ashes scattering or burial: Disposing of the ashes in a chosen location.

Some crematoriums in New Addington may also offer additional services, such as:

• Viewing of the body before cremation
• Live webcasting of the cremation ceremony
• Return of ashes in a specific container or urn

Crematoriums in New Addington

New Addington has several crematoriums that cater to the needs of the local community. Some of the most popular crematoriums in the area include:

• Croydon Crematorium: Located on Mitcham Road, this crematorium offers a range of services, including cremation ceremonies and ashes scattering.
• Greenlawn Memorial Park: Situated on Foxley Lane, this crematorium provides a peaceful setting for families to say their goodbyes.
• Shirley Crematorium: Located on Wickham Road, this crematorium offers a modern and comfortable environment for cremation ceremonies.

Cost of Cremation in New Addington

The cost of cremation in New Addington can vary depending on the crematorium, funeral home, and services chosen. On average, the cost of cremation in New Addington can range from £1,000 to £3,000. This includes the cost of the cremation process, crematorium fees, and other services such as urn selection and ashes scattering.

Environmental Impact of Cremation

Cremation is often considered a more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional burial. However, it's essential to note that cremation does release greenhouse gases and pollutants into the atmosphere. Some crematoriums in New Addington are taking steps to reduce their environmental impact, such as using energy-efficient equipment and implementing sustainable practices.

Choosing a Funeral Home in New Addington

When choosing a funeral home in New Addington, it's essential to consider several factors, including:

• Reputation: Research the funeral home's reputation online and ask for referrals from family and friends.
• Services: Ensure the funeral home offers the services you need, including cremation ceremonies and ashes scattering.
• Cost: Compare prices among different funeral homes to find the best option for your budget.
• Staff: Meet with the funeral director and staff to ensure you feel comfortable and supported throughout the process.

Planning a Cremation Service in New Addington

Planning a cremation service in New Addington can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance, it can be a meaningful and personal experience. Here are some tips to consider:

• Personalize the service: Incorporate personal elements, such as music, photos, and readings, to make the service unique to your loved one.
• Choose a celebrant: Select a celebrant who can lead the service and provide support to your family.
• Consider a memorial: Create a memorial, such as a tree planting or bench dedication, to honor your loved one.

Cremation in New Addington is a popular choice for many families, offering a range of services and options to suit individual needs. By understanding the cremation process, choosing the right crematorium and funeral home, and planning a personalized service, you can create a meaningful and memorable experience for your loved one. Remember to take your time, ask questions, and seek support throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cremation and how does it work?

Cremation is a process where the body of the deceased is transformed into ashes through high-temperature burning. This process typically takes place in a cremation chamber, where the body is placed in a coffin or container and exposed to intense heat, usually between 1400°C to 1800°C, for a period of 1-2 hours. The resulting ashes are then collected and returned to the family.

What are the benefits of cremation in New Addington, London?

Cremation in New Addington, London offers several benefits, including cost-effectiveness, environmental sustainability, and flexibility in memorialization options. Cremation is generally less expensive than traditional burial, and it also reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional funerals. Additionally, cremation allows families to choose from a wide range of memorialization options, such as scattering ashes in a special location or keeping them in an urn.

What is the average cost of cremation in New Addington, London?

The average cost of cremation in New Addington, London can vary depending on the type of service and provider chosen. However, on average, a direct cremation can cost between £1,000 to £2,000, while a traditional cremation with a funeral service can cost between £3,000 to £5,000.

What is the difference between a direct cremation and a traditional cremation?

A direct cremation is a simple and cost-effective option where the body is cremated without a funeral service or viewing. The body is collected from the place of death, taken to the crematorium, and cremated, with the ashes returned to the family. A traditional cremation, on the other hand, includes a funeral service, viewing, and other ceremonial elements, followed by cremation.

Can I still have a funeral service if I choose cremation?

Yes, you can still have a funeral service if you choose cremation. In fact, many families opt for a traditional cremation with a funeral service, which includes a viewing, eulogy, and other ceremonial elements. You can also choose to have a memorial service or celebration of life after the cremation has taken place.

How long does the cremation process take?

The cremation process itself typically takes around 1-2 hours, depending on the size and composition of the body. However, the entire process, from collecting the body to returning the ashes, can take several days.

What happens to the ashes after cremation?

After cremation, the ashes are collected and returned to the family in an urn or container. You can then choose to scatter the ashes in a special location, bury them in a cemetery or memorial garden, or keep them in an urn or container.

Can I scatter the ashes in a public place?

In New Addington, London, you can scatter ashes in a public place, but it's essential to obtain permission from the local authorities or landowners first. Some popular scattering locations include parks, gardens, and waterways.

What are the laws and regulations surrounding cremation in New Addington, London?

In the UK, cremation is regulated by the Cremation Act 1902 and the Cremation (England and Wales) Regulations 2008. These laws govern the cremation process, including the handling and disposal of ashes, and ensure that cremations are carried out with dignity and respect.

Can I pre-plan and pre-pay for cremation services?

Yes, you can pre-plan and pre-pay for cremation services in New Addington, London. This can help alleviate the financial burden on your loved ones and ensure that your wishes are respected.

What is the environmental impact of cremation?

Cremation has a relatively low environmental impact compared to traditional burial. However, it's essential to choose a crematorium that uses environmentally friendly practices, such as filtering emissions and using renewable energy sources.

Can I witness the cremation process?

Yes, some crematoriums in New Addington, London offer the option to witness the cremation process. However, this is not a common practice, and it's essential to discuss this with the crematorium and funeral director beforehand.

What happens if I want to transport the ashes abroad?

If you want to transport the ashes abroad, you'll need to obtain a permit from the UK authorities and comply with the laws and regulations of the destination country. It's essential to work with a funeral director or crematorium that has experience with international ash transportation.

Can I divide the ashes among family members?

Yes, you can divide the ashes among family members, but it's essential to discuss this with the crematorium and funeral director beforehand. They can help you determine the best way to divide the ashes and ensure that each portion is handled with dignity and respect.

How do I choose a crematorium in New Addington, London?

When choosing a crematorium in New Addington, London, consider factors such as location, pricing, services offered, and reputation. You can also ask for recommendations from friends, family, or a funeral director.

What is the role of a funeral director in the cremation process?

A funeral director plays a crucial role in the cremation process, from collecting the body to returning the ashes to the family. They can also help with planning the funeral service, obtaining necessary permits, and ensuring that the cremation is carried out with dignity and respect.

Can I still have a burial if I choose cremation?

Yes, you can still have a burial if you choose cremation. You can opt for a cremation burial, where the ashes are buried in a cemetery or memorial garden, or a green burial, where the ashes are buried in a biodegradable container.

What are the benefits of choosing a green cremation?

Green cremation, also known as eco-cremation, is a more environmentally friendly option that uses a lower temperature and fewer resources. This option can reduce the carbon footprint associated with traditional cremation and is a more sustainable choice.

Can I include personal items in the cremation process?

Yes, you can include personal items, such as jewelry, clothing, or mementos, in the cremation process. However, it's essential to discuss this with the crematorium and funeral director beforehand to ensure that the items are suitable for cremation.

What happens if I want to change my mind about cremation?

If you want to change your mind about cremation, you should discuss this with the funeral director and crematorium as soon as possible. They can help you explore alternative options, such as traditional burial or donation to science.

Can I still have a memorial service if I choose direct cremation?

Yes, you can still have a memorial service if you choose direct cremation. In fact, many families opt for a memorial service or celebration of life after the cremation has taken place. This can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and provide closure for the family.

How do I obtain a death certificate after cremation?

After cremation, the funeral director will help you obtain a death certificate from the UK authorities. This certificate is necessary for administrative and legal purposes, such as settling the estate and notifying government agencies.

What is the cremation rate in New Addington, London?

The cremation rate in New Addington, London is around 70-80%, which is higher than the national average. This is likely due to the increasing popularity of cremation as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option.

Can I pre-arrange a cremation for a loved one?

Yes, you can pre-arrange a cremation for a loved one, but it's essential to discuss this with them beforehand to ensure that their wishes are respected. You can also consider setting up a joint funeral plan or pre-paid funeral contract to cover the costs.