Cremation
Information about the crematoria we use, what happens during a cremation and the costs involved.
A cremation can take place after a service at the crematorium, or without a service. After the cremation, the ashes can be returned to you or, if you wish, scattered at the crematorium.
Most of the funerals we arrange take place at Sunderland Crematorium.
We use three crematoria
Each one sets its own booking times. At Sunderland, an Unattended Cremation has no mourners, and in a Simple Cremation mourners may follow the coffin, with no music and no service.
Sunderland Crematorium
Run by Sunderland City Council.
Unattended Cremation: 8.00am or 8.15am
Simple Cremation: 8.30am or 8.45am
South Shields Crematorium
Run by South Tyneside Council.
Unattended Cremation: 8.15am, Monday to Friday
Durham Crematorium
Run by the Central Durham Crematorium Joint Committee.
Unattended Cremation: 8.00am, 8.15am or 4.00pm
The crematorium fee is included in the price we quote.
There is one form to sign
- 1.
The form you sign
You sign one form, Cremation 1, and we provide it for you. The medical examiner reviews the cause of death and gives the family an opportunity to ask questions. We will explain anything you need to sign and provide the forms for you.
- 2.
Implanted devices
We will ask whether the person who has died had a pacemaker or another implanted device and pass this information to the crematorium. This is part of the arrangements we take care of for you.
What happens to the ashes?
The ashes are usually ready in three working days. We can bring them to you, or you can collect them, whichever suits you.
We talk through memorial options with you afterwards. Sunderland City Council also sends the family a memorial information pack after the funeral.
What happens next
- 1.
Make the first call
Contact us and we will guide you through the arrangements, explaining what happens next and taking care of the details for you.
- 2.
Here for you, day or night
You can call us at any time, day or night, every day of the year. You will speak directly to a member of our team who is here to help and guide you through the next steps.
