A non-religious humanist funeral
There is no legal requirement to have a religious funeral. As religion plays a less important role in peoples lives it is becoming common for people to opt for a non-religious humanist ceremony.
A humanist funeral enables family and friends to share the loss of a loved-one as well as celebrate their life and the impact they had on family and friends. This type of funeral is usually conducted by an officiant or celebrant and can involve readings of poetry, tributes from family, friends or the celebrant and the playing of music. There is also a time for reflection.
Funeral ceremonies have no legal status in themselves so you are free to hold one wherever you choose. That said, most humanist funerals are held at crematoria, cemeteries or woodland burial sites.
Alternatively, if you don’t want a ceremony at all, members of the family or close friends can attend the committal, which can be in silence or with some music being played.
One of our funeral arrangers will be pleased to discuss the options and help you plan a non-religious funeral. This can be done at one of our offices or we can make an appointment to visit you in the comfort of your own home. We work with a number of celebrants and can advise you on an appropriate format that offers both a dignified farewell and a celebration of a loved-one’s life. Each ceremony can be tailored to create something unique that reflects your loved-one, so as to ensure a fitting and sincere way of remembering them.
You will be given the opportunity to personalise a funeral to reflect your loved one’s interests or personality. Our funeral arranger will make you aware of the procedures and legal requirements.
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