1) Can more than one body be cremated in a cremator at the same time?

The code of cremation practice insists that each cremation is carried out separately. Exceptions may be made, for instance in the case of a mother and baby or twin children, providing that the next of kin has made a specific request in this regard.

2) Should items of jewellery be left on a body for cremation?

It is preferable that all items of jewellery be removed from the body before the coffin is conveyed to the crematorium. The funeral director should ascertain your wishes in respect of this matter when the funeral arrangements are being discussed. It will not be possible to recover any items of jewellery after the coffin has been received at the crematorium. The crematorium is a member of the Federation of British Cremation Authorities and as such adheres to the Code of Cremation Practice.

3) Are there any religious groups which forbid cremation to their members?

Most Christian denominations, including the Roman Catholic Church, allow cremation. Cremation is preferred by Sikhs and Hindus and acceptable to Parsees and Buddhists but is forbidden by Orthodox Jews and Muslims. Non-religious ceremonies are perfectly legal and completely acceptable to the Crematorium.

4) Is cremation more expensive than burial?

Generally the cost of burial is much higher than the fee charged for cremation. Cremation needs a medical certificate for which fees are payable to the doctors concerned. These certificates are not required when the death has been referred to and investigated by the coroner (procurator fiscal in Scotland), or when burial is required.

5) How is a cremation arranged?

A number of arrangements need to be made following a death. The responsibility normally falls on the executor of the will or the nearest surviving relative who may wish to approach a professional funeral director who will undertake some of the various tasks on their behalf. The funeral director will need to discuss the family's requirements, then make the appointment with the crematorium.

6) Do relatives need to decide at this stage about the disposal of cremated remains?

When arranging a funeral, often one of the most difficult decisions to make is where the final resting place should be. The funeral director will discuss with relatives the options for the disposal of cremated remains, but families should not feel rushed into making a final decision at this stage. A form of authority will be required to be signed advising the crematorium of the wishes of the family.

All crematoria provide a garden of remembrance where cremated remains can be dispersed, if family members wish to be present an appointment can be made. Cremated remains can be removed from the crematorium in a suitable container for disposal elsewhere. This may include burial in a cemetery or churchyard, dispersal at another crematorium or disposal privately in a particular area selected by the family. Suitable permission must be obtained from the appropriate authority in these cases.