Unattended burial or cremation
There are many reasons why someone might want an unattended funeral, some are listed below:
- They firmly believe that there is no need for a funeral
- Their loved ones may decide that a separate memorial service is more appropriate
- Perhaps there is no close family or it is difficult for family to gather together for a funeral
- Loved ones wishing to spend the least amount of money as possible

Why choose Rosedale?
Rosedale Funeral Home is an award winning, local family business who have built their reputation by providing exceptional service at an affordable cost and we believe our attention to detail and personal service sets us apart from other funeral directors.
Even the simplest service deserves to be provided in a dignified, caring manner which you can guarantee by selecting Rosedale for the unattended funeral. Our service is caring and professional and we are available for advice and support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Our charges are transparent and fair and our care of the deceased is second to none. We are members of the National Association of Funeral Directors and observe their code of conduct at all times. We are the only funeral directors in Norfolk and Suffolk to be recommended by both the Good Funeral Guide and the Natural Death Centre.
From £1200
Our unattended burial or cremation is our most cost effective option without compromising on care.
From £1550
Our enhanced unattended burial or cremation offers more personalisation without compromising on care.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can direct cremation be so inexpensive?
The amount of staff time involved on a direct cremation is significantly lower than on a traditional funeral, and the administration is also much reduced as there are fewer third parties to liaise with and the funeral takes place at a day and time that is convenient to us. There is no need to use the hearse and limousine which are extremely expensive specialist vehicles.
How do we arrange a Direct Cremation?
We can arrange the funeral with you face to face, or over the telephone and forms can be posted or emailed to you. These will need to be returned to us along with the Registrar’s Certificate for Burial or Cremation/Coroner’s Order for Burial or Cremation which is usually emailed to us as part of the registration process.
Once we are in receipt of all the completed paperwork and you have arranged payment in full, we will arrange and carry out the unattended funeral. You will not be advised of the date or time of this.
Is this a communal cremation?
Absolutely not.
The Cremation Act sets out very strict criteria concerning cremation in the UK and each cremation is carried out individually. The cremated remains will have a certificate to accompany them which confirms this.
Do you re-use the coffin?
Absolutely not. A simple coffin is used for each person whether it is burial or cremation.
Can I collect the ashes?
Yes, of course. We will let you know once the ashes are in our care, usually within 28 days. You can come and collect these from us during office hours, please bring some identification with you.
It is possible to have the ashes transferred into a casket, urn or scatter tube, incorporated into jewellery or even put into a firework. Please talk to us about the possibilities.
Can you help me to organise a ceremony following a direct cremation?
Of course.
If you are opting for a memorial service to follow the direct cremation, we can assist you will all aspects of this.
We have many years of experience in managing services and ceremonies with or without a coffin. You may choose to do this as part of the ceremony prior to scattering or burying the cremated remains, or you could choose a significant date such as a birthday or anniversary.
There are lots of things to be considered and we can listen to your ideas and support you, getting involved as much or as little as you would like us to be. We can help to take the pressure off with lots of the red tape involved, such as risk assessments, public liability insurance and music licenses, as well as recommending suitable venues, caterers and photographers and providing service sheets, audio equipment, keepsakes and memorial books.