Question 1

British Sign Language

Accepted Answer

I learned BSL level one and two in Wakefield with Debra Freeman a few years back. I was frustrated in my other job that I couldn't communicate with D/deaf customers and my wife inspired me to learn. I really enjoy using BSL in my working life but I'm aware of my limitations! I'm more than happy to work with you and an interpreter to ensure you fully understand all the processes and to enable you to make informed decisions about your ceremony. I use iPhones and a Mac, so we can FaceTime if needed.

#IndependentCelebrant #deaf #hearingimpaired #BSL

Question 2

What is a burial?

Accepted Answer

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_65487ca6f1404fdb922e0ba43f2736a9~mv2.jpg

When someone dies, nature takes its course fairly rapidly. Burials were the chosen method back in the day. A deep hole in the ground is dug and the body is placed inside. Due to animals tending to dig up a body, the hole is usually dug six feet down (hence the term six feet under).  Ancient cultures would place heavy stones on the grave to help prevent grave disturbance. Traditional burials are no longer the most common way to dispose of a body. 75% of funerals are now done by fire cremation.

Burials are a permanent reminder of your loved one and  a place to visit. Graves are usually marked by a gravestone with a name and dates of birth and death engraved on them. A gravestone can't be placed upon the grave immediately as the earth needs to settle for approximately six to twelve months. Gravestones are also fairly expensive costing £1000 to £2000.

Cemetery and Churchyard space is now at a premium and this means burials are more expensive and can be difficult to obtain. If you're wanting to be buried, I'd advise contacting the Council and ensuring about a lease ASAP. Some of my local Churchyards and Cemeteries are almost full.

It's important to note that a burial plot is not yours exclusively forever. When you contact the local Council to obtain a plot, you are normally buying a lease for Exclusive Right of Burial, for 50-100 years. This can cost between £1000-£6000. After this time, the lease is then open to being bought by someone else. For most people, family or friends are likely to have died, so there may be no-one to visit or care for the grave.

You can buy

1. a single plot, 
2. a companion plot sold next to each other (generally for couples), 
3. family plot,
4. cremated remains,
5. woodland/natural burial plot.

You'll still be charged for the internment of the coffin, and will have to give notice to the council when you need to use the plot. Keep your paperwork in a safe place as you'll need it to prove the plot is yours to use. I'd advise keeping it with your Will and Funeral Arrangements.

A burial can take place with a shroud, a wicker or wooden coffin. It can also be attended by mourners or unattended, just like a direct cremation. Why not arrange a call so we can discuss your wishes?

100% Human Written.

#Funerals #IndependentCelebrant #FuneralFridays #Burial #deathwork

Question 3

I can’t afford to bury my loved one. What can I do?

Accepted Answer

Firstly, don’t panic! Help is available. In the case of someone being unable to afford the funeral costs, Social Services will assist. You would contact the local office (Leeds 0113 2224401/leedsadults@leeds.gov.uk) A social worker will do an assessment on your situation. You need to ask for a Section 50 funeral aka a public funeral. The Government have to provide funerals for people who have no means to provide one. You can still be involved in the planning of the service and attend it. The service will be simple, respectful and dignified. There are charities that can help with services for babies and children.

Question 4

I’ve heard of people being buried at sea. Is this true?

Accepted Answer

Yes it is. There are 3 places and legal requirements. A marine licence is required from the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) for a burial at sea in English waters or Northern Irish offshore waters. There are three designated burial at sea locations, which are:

1.	Off The Needles, Isle of Wight
	2.	Between Hastings and Newhaven
	3.	Off Tynemouth, North Tyneside

You don’t need a licence or permission to scatter ashes at sea after a cremation.

Question 5

Can I have a funeral somewhere other than the crematorium?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can. A funeral is simply the service that honours the deceased. For example, the service can happen in a pub, a crematorium, a chapel of rest, a beach, a hotel or at home. A burial or cremation has to occur in an appropriate place. As people are used to a Priest conducting a funeral they don’t realise that there are other options if that’s not your thing. If you own your own home and land, you can even be buried there. (You do need to check this won’t affect the local water line and some other restrictions. You can’t change the use of the land, so you can only bury up to two or three people after getting the appropriate paperwork. I really hope I don’t need to say this but, obviously the authorities need to be informed if you’re burying someone on your land, otherwise the police may come knocking…)

Question 6

Where can I hold my ceremony?

Accepted Answer

A wedding celebrant ceremony can be held at a variety of indoor and outdoor locations, providing flexibility and personalization to your special day.

Question 7

What is a celebrant?

Accepted Answer

A wedding celebrant is a professional who is trained and experienced in creating and conducting personalised, meaningful, and non-religious wedding ceremonies. I work closely with you to design and officiate a ceremony that truly reflects your values, beliefs, and story. I honour diversity and recognise that each couple is unique, which is why I strive to create a ceremony that is authentic and tailored to your individual preferences.

FAQ's