KENNARD Derek M.S.M
Having said this many natural burial grounds also welcome a minister to lead a religious service.”
KEY BENEFITS
“There are many benefits to a natural burial,” says Michael. “Often the burial site will only hold one service each day and as such there is no time pressure.
“A green burial can be very personal to the person who has died, families may like to be actively involved in reading tributes, poems, singing songs or playing music, whatever would help that family to have a personal goodbye.Unlike cremation, a burial gives a physical place where loved ones can go to be with their loved ones, but remember if you’re opting for a green burial the place is likely to be rustic without smooth paved paths.”
WHY ARE THEY POPULAR?
“Funerals are changing and many people are now opting for non-religious services without the pomp of a black hearse followed by a limousine going to a service led by a minister who has never met the deceased,” says Michael.
“Green Burials, as well as cremation, now give people the option to tailor the service to reflect the person who has died.
“People are now aware that a funeral can be more individual and bespoke and because of this more people are now opting for green burials.”
PRICE AND COSTING
“The cost of a green burial can be very competitive when compared to cemetery burials and even cremations, which had been perceived as cheaper than burials,” says Michael.
“The cost will of course vary depending on your requirements but this can be very thrifty if needed with families leading a service followed by a picnic for the people gathered, or you can push the boat out with live music bands and outside caterers, the control of costs should be in your hands.
“You may even consider a DIY funeral. Some funeral directors, such as www. goodgrieffunerals.co.uk, will now assist families who choose to do much of the work themselves but need help with some of the paperwork or care of the deceased.”
FINDING OUT MORE:
You can find out more about natural burial grounds from The Natural Death Centre (www.naturaldeath.org.uk) Or you can also visit the Good Funeral Guide (www.goodfuneralguide.co.uk) for further information.
Remembering my wonderful husband. Lots of love, your wife Jean. xx