Let's face it, us Brits aren't exactly known for shouting about death from the rooftops. But things are changing, and the way we say goodbye to loved ones is evolving faster than you can say "direct cremation."
This article dives into the curious case of death in Britain. It will explore why seeing a dead body is becoming increasingly rare, how much a send-off can set you back, and why there's a whole industry dedicated to helping us, well, deal with it all.
Bye-Bye Body?
Those of you of a certain generation may remember tearful goodbyes at the bedside? Turns out, many Brits are opting for a more streamlined approach these days. Direct cremations, where the deceased goes straight from hospital to the crematorium, are on the rise. In fact, that figure was 20% of all deaths in 2023. Maybe it's the cost, maybe it's just not our style anymore, but whatever the reason, we are choosing to see less and less of the dearly departed.
The Price of Peace
Speaking of cost, let's talk about the hefty price tag that comes with death. Funerals aren't cheap, and with big companies dominating the market, transparency about pricing can be as elusive as a unicorn. The result? Saying goodbye to loved one can leave a serious dent in your wallet. The average 'price of death' in the UK in 2023 was just over £9,500, a 5% increase on the year before.
Therapy Takes Over Tradition?
With traditional mourning rituals fading away, a new player has entered the game: the grief industry. Therapists and counselors are there to hold our hands (metaphorically, of course) through the grieving process. But is all this professional help a good thing? Some worry that normal grief is being medicalised, turning a natural human experience into a billable disorder.
Planning a Meaningful Goodbye: A Touching Finish
But what if there was another option? At A Touching Finish, we offer a unique service: advanced wake planning. By discussing your wishes in advance, you can ensure your loved ones throw a send-off that truly reflects your life and personality, even if you opt for direct cremation. This can be a huge relief for those left behind, allowing them to focus on grieving and celebrating your memory, rather than getting bogged down in complicated logistics.
Remembering How to Remember?
So, what's the answer? Maybe it's not just about therapy sessions, but about remembering how to grieve together. Perhaps seeing funerals from a young age and talking openly about death could be a more natural way to cope with loss. Talking about it doesn't make it happen, but it does make dealing with the practicalities far simpler.
Death is a part of life, but in Britain, it's often a topic we keep hidden away. By acknowledging these changes and discussing them openly, maybe we can find a way to say goodbye that's both personal and meaningful. A Touching Finish can be there to help you navigate this process, every step of the way.