Funerals at Home

What is a Home Funeral?

Home funerals are becoming increasingly popular in the UK. They enable family and friends to be more involved in the journey of preparing their loved one and creating a unique farewell that feels right for them and those they love. Home funerals can provide an incredible sense of intimacy and connection and can play an important role in the grieving process.

Preparing and caring for your special person at home

In a home funeral, the family usually takes responsibility for, or helps with, bathing and dressing their special person. Caring for a loved one in their final journey can be a deeply healing process. It can help to work with an experienced and compassionate celebrant, soul midwife, or funeral guide, both for guidance and emotional support.

A Candlelit Vigil

The soft light of candles, incense, and quiet music can help to create a peaceful space for family and friends to reflect and pray together. The room can be decorated with beautiful flowers, favourite photos and other special mementos. It’s an opportunity for memories to be shared and for people to support each other in their grief. A candlelit vigil may take place over a few hours or even days.

Home Burials or Ashes Scattering Ceremonies at home

Some families choose to bury their loved one, or scatter their ashes, at home or in a place that is close to their heart. A ceremony can be held and a memorial garden can be created, with flowers, trees, a bench or stone marker. If you are considering a burial at home, it’s important to check local rules and regulations.

Natural Burials

With natural burials no embalming chemicals are used and the person is laid to rest in a biodegradable coffin or shroud. If you have the space, you can create a small natural burial site in your own garden, maybe with a tree planted in their memory. Alternatively, there are a growing number of beautiful woodland and natural burial grounds throughout the UK. For further information, please go to our Inspiration page for Woodland Burial & Natural Burial Grounds.

A Celebration of Life at Home

Hosting a wake or celebration of life at home provides an informal, relaxed setting for family and friends to gather, share stories, and support each other. The catering doesn’t need to be elaborate, a selection of sandwiches, sausage rolls and dips is always a welcome choice. To find ideas for personal touches for a service or celebration of life, please go to our Information page for Personal Touches.

Find Further Helpful Information About Planning a Funeral or Celebration of Life

For further information about planning a funeral or celebration of life, please go to Funeral Planning Information.

Find Providers That Can Help You Every Step of the Way

If you would like to find caring and compassionate individuals and businesses that can help you with various aspects of a home funeral and celebration of life, please go to our Provider Directory.