Humanist Funerals in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you considering a humanist funeral, either for yourself or someone else, or have you been invited to attend one? Whatever your situation, this guide provides valuable insights into humanist funerals in the UK.

What Exactly Is a Humanist Funeral?

Humanist funerals, often referred to as 'non-religious,' 'secular,' or 'atheist' funerals, offer a way to bid farewell to someone without involving organised religion. Many individuals lead lives without religious affiliations or beliefs, but they can still have a funeral that brings together friends and family to celebrate the life of the deceased and share stories and memories.

The term 'humanist' reflects the philosophical idea that every human life is important, valued, and equal, regardless of beliefs or cultural backgrounds. As a result, humanist funerals tend to focus on celebrating the life and experiences of the person.

Typically, these funerals are officiated by a humanist celebrant who leads the service and invites others to offer readings.

Arranging a Humanist Funeral in the UK

Humanist funerals in England can be highly customized, depending on the preferences of the deceased and their loved ones. Without a religious template to follow, each service may vary significantly. Elements of a humanist funeral may include readings, music, the sharing of stories, and a eulogy.

While a funeral director usually handles the practical arrangements, the choice of ceremony is entirely yours. If you're considering planning your own funeral, you can explore our pre-planned funeral ceremony service.

Similar to religious funerals, a humanist service typically precedes burial or cremation, depending on the deceased's wishes.

Finding a Funeral Director for a Humanist Funeral in the UK

Most funeral directors in the UK are comfortable arranging humanist funerals, and you can easily check this by visiting their website. A straightforward online search, such as 'your town/area name + funeral director,' can help you find the information you need.

Cost of a Humanist Funeral

The cost of a humanist funeral in the UK is generally similar to that of a religious funeral since many expenses are identical. In England, the average costs for funerals are around £5,000 for burial and £4,000 for cremation, though these costs can vary by location. Your funeral director can help you align the service with your budget, regardless of the type of funeral you're planning.

Humanist celebrants typically charge between £150-350 for their services, with factors such as service length, location, and the celebrant's experience influencing the price.

The Role of a Humanist Celebrant

The celebrant of a humanist funeral in the UK plays a crucial role in planning the perfect funeral, including:

• Collaborating with loved ones to plan every aspect of the humanist funeral service.

• Communicating with you to understand the deceased's character and their preferred service.

• Crafting and delivering the eulogy that celebrates and commemorates the life of the deceased.

• Assisting you in selecting readings and music.

• Providing guidance on practical matters, such as coordinating with the ceremony venue and ensuring the service runs on time.

• Offering organisational and emotional support on the day to ensure the funeral proceeds smoothly.

Finding a Humanist Celebrant in the UK

The celebrant is often unfamiliar to the deceased or their loved ones before their passing. However, finding the ideal match is relatively easy, either through online searches or via your chosen funeral director.

Choosing a Venue for a Humanist Funeral

Most humanist funerals occur at a crematorium, cemetery, or a green burial site, such as a glade or woodland. Alternatively, you can opt for a location significant to the deceased, whether indoors or outdoors. The funeral might even take place at the family home or garden, following cremation on a prior day.

Appropriate Attire for a Humanist Funeral in the UK

As you've seen throughout this guide, there are no strict rules regarding most aspects of a humanist funeral, including dress code. If you're the organizer, it's beneficial to include attire guidelines with the invitation to minimise guest inquiries.

People often have a clear idea of their preferred attire for their own funeral, and this information can be incorporated into your plans if you're arranging your funeral. While some humanist funerals may emphasise 'celebrating' the person's life, which may lead to lighter and less formal attire, if there's any uncertainty and the invitation doesn't specify, it's advisable to opt for darker and more formal clothing.

Duration of a Humanist Funeral

Similar to most religious funerals, humanist funerals in the UK typically last between 20 minutes to an hour, with the majority falling within the 30-40 minute range. Be sure to factor in time for arriving and departing from the service, as it may take some time to leave the venue after the service concludes.

The celebrant often assists in managing the schedule, ensuring the event proceeds as planned.

Additional Ideas for a Humanist Funeral

If you're organising a humanist funeral for the first time or simply seek ideas to celebrate your loved one in their preferred manner, consider these suggestions:

• Request video clips from friends and family, allowing them to share memories of the deceased, which can be edited into a film.

• Collect donations from attendees and contribute them to the deceased's favourite charity.

• Encourage attendees to donate to a charitable cause instead of bringing flowers.

• Opt for the deceased's favourite song as part of the service instead of hymns or traditional music.

By following these guidelines and considering these ideas, you can plan a meaningful and personalised humanist funeral in the UK.