How direct cremation works
Arranging a direct cremation with Memoria is simple, dignified and straightforward. We take care of the arrangements so you can focus on remembering your loved one.
The five steps of care
From first call to final farewell, we keep you informed and supported.
Contact our team
If someone has died, simply call us on 0800 007 3921. Our experienced team is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Collection and care
We collect your loved one from their place of rest — hospital, care home or private residence — anywhere in mainland UK.
Cremation
The cremation takes place privately at one of our own award-winning Memoria crematoria, usually at sunrise or sunset.
Return or scattering
Ashes are carefully collected and returned by hand, made available for collection, or scattered in gardens of remembrance.
Ongoing support
We remain available to support you with next steps, memorials, keepsakes or bereavement guidance.
What to do when someone dies
Losing someone close can feel overwhelming. We’re here to guide you through each step with care and understanding.
- If someone dies at home, call their GP or NHS 111 to confirm the death
- If the death is in a hospital, the mortuary will care for your loved one until you’re ready
- Contact us and we’ll arrange collection and explain the paperwork
- We liaise directly with hospitals, care homes or coroners when needed
Please note: due to different regulations in Scotland, we are not able to complete paperwork on behalf of families whose loved one resides there.
Ashes options
When the cremation is complete, we’ll contact you to arrange what happens next.
Hand-delivered to you
Our ashes delivery experts will arrive at the agreed time, introduce themselves, and hand over the ashes securely with a certificate of cremation.
Garden of remembrance
Choose to have ashes scattered in the peaceful gardens of remembrance at one of our crematoria.
Collection at your convenience
Collect the ashes from one of our partner locations at a time that suits you.
Bereavement support
Grief is deeply personal, and everyone experiences it differently. While talking with friends and family can often help, additional support is available from national organisations if you need it.
- Cruse Bereavement Support — 0808 808 1677
- The Compassionate Friends — 0345 123 2304
- Samaritans — 116 123
- Bereavement UK — bereavement.co.uk
Our own team remains only ever a phone call away if you need practical guidance.
Need help right now?
If someone has died and you need immediate assistance, call us. We’re available 24 hours a day.
Call 0800 007 3921 Request a callback