how long to get ashes after cremation
When a loved one passes away, dealing with the practical aspects of their funeral can be challenging amidst the emotional turmoil. One of the common concerns for families is understanding how long it takes to receive the ashes after cremation. At Gaunts of Wollaston, we know how important it is for families to have clarity during such times. This guide will help you understand the process and timeline for receiving ashes after a cremation in the UK.
The Cremation Process
Before discussing the timeline, it’s helpful to understand the cremation process itself. Cremation is a respectful and dignified way to handle a loved one’s remains and has become an increasingly popular choice in the UK. Once the funeral service is complete, the deceased is taken to a crematorium, where the cremation process takes place.
The actual cremation process usually lasts between 90 minutes to two hours, depending on the size of the deceased and the specific equipment used by the crematorium. After this, the remains are carefully cooled and processed into fine ashes, also known as cremated remains.
Timeline for Receiving Ashes
In the UK, the time it takes to receive ashes after cremation can vary depending on several factors. Generally, families can expect to receive the ashes within 7 to 14 days after the cremation. Here’s a breakdown of the factors that can influence this timeline:
1. Crematorium Schedules
Crematoria have different schedules and may handle multiple cremations per day. In busy periods, such as winter months, there may be a slight delay due to the higher number of cremations. Most crematoria aim to complete the cremation and have the ashes ready for collection within a week, but this can extend to 10 to 14 days in busier periods.
2. Paperwork and Legal Requirements
Before the cremation can take place, all necessary paperwork, including the cremation forms and the medical certificate of cause of death, must be completed and approved. Any delays in processing these documents can affect the overall timeline.
3. Special Requests
If the family has requested specific items to be cremated with the deceased, or if there are any special requirements (such as separating a portion of the ashes for keepsakes or scattering), this can also affect the time it takes to receive the ashes.
4. Transportation and Collection
Once the ashes are ready, the crematorium will contact the next of kin or the funeral director to arrange collection. If the family is not local, additional time may be required to arrange for the ashes to be delivered or collected at a convenient time.
What to Expect When Collecting the Ashes
When the ashes are ready for collection, the crematorium will place them in a temporary container, such as a simple urn or box. This container is suitable for short-term storage, but many families choose to transfer the ashes to a more personalised urn or keepsake.
At Gaunts of Wollaston, we can assist you with selecting an appropriate urn or keepsake, and we also offer guidance on different options for memorialising your loved one, whether through scattering, burial, or other commemorative practices.
Can the Process Be Expedited?
In certain circumstances, such as when family members are travelling from abroad or if there is an urgent need for the ashes, it may be possible to expedite the process. If this is the case, it’s important to communicate your needs to the funeral director and the crematorium as early as possible. They may be able to prioritise the cremation and return the ashes more quickly, although this is not always guaranteed.
Understanding the timeline for receiving ashes after cremation can help you plan the next steps in honouring your loved one’s memory. While the process typically takes between 7 to 14 days, it’s important to consider the factors that may influence this timing. At Gaunts of Wollaston, we are here to support you throughout every step of this journey, ensuring that your loved one’s final wishes are respected and that you have the information you need during this difficult time.
If you have any further questions or need assistance with funeral arrangements, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to provide compassionate and professional support whenever you need it.
Our West Midlands Funeral Directors
We also have branches available in Blackheath, Smethwick, Cradley Heath and Kidderminster
Smethwick
Maben House Funeral Home
280 High Street, Smethwick
B66 3NL
Telephone: 0121 5555 529
Out of Hours: 07976 082 203
Kidderminster
1 Lupin Works
Worcester Road
Kidderminster, DY10 1JR
Telephone: 01562 541062
Out of Hours: 01562 541062
We proudly serve communities across the West Midlands and the Black Country, including Rowley Regis and surrounding areas