A guide on how to scatter the ashes of your loved one in the UK
After a loved one is cremated, many families find comfort in scattering their ashes in a place that holds special meaning or memories. It’s a personal way to honour their life and say a meaningful goodbye.
This guide is here to help navigate the legalities and regulations around scattering ashes in the UK, and to offer options for the best way to scatter ashes to those who wish to scatter ashes in a particular location. Whether it’s a serene park, a beloved garden, or a cherished spot in nature, we’re here to help make this process as meaningful and respectful as possible.
Can you scatter ashes anywhere?
The rules around the scattering of ashes are relatively flexible. You are free to scatter the ashes of your loved ones wherever you’d like, granted you obtain permission from the landowner. Depending on where you plan to scatter the ashes, you may need to check with various authorities such as the local council, church, or private landowner.
That said, if you choose to scatter ashes in a private or public park, there will be certain environmental guidelines that you must follow. In fact, human ashes contain minerals that can be detrimental to certain organisms, so you should steer clear of areas with dense vegetation.
Where can I scatter ashes?
It is up to you where you scatter your loved one’s ashes, keeping in mind any preference they noted prior to their death, and as long as you adhere to any regulations and gain the necessary permissions. Perhaps your loved one spent time at sea, relished long park walks or enjoyed a summer’s day sitting in their garden. Go ahead with a location that comes with a lot of sentimental value.
Where do you put ashes in a cemetery
Scattering ashes in a cemetery offers a gentle and simple way to bid farewell. Many places have special memorial gardens just for this purpose, creating a peaceful spot for remembrance. And if your family owns the exclusive burial rights to a plot, you might even choose to scatter the ashes there, blending memories with the resting place of loved ones. But before scattering ashes on a family grave, speak to the cemetery owner, or let your Funeral Director handle it if you prefer, to get permission for the scattering.
How to scatter ashes at sea
Scattering ashes at sea or in a river is another beautiful way to honour a loved one’s memory. Unlike a sea burial, you don’t need a licence or permission from a landowner. However, it’s important to adhere to guidelines set by the Environmental Agency. First and foremost, you must make sure that the chosen scattering site is away from buildings, swimmers, fishermen or marinas.
Additionally, you should also confirm that it’s no more than 1 km upstream of any water abstraction point by contacting your local Environment Agency office. Scatter the ashes as close to the water’s surface as possible, and avoid windy days to prevent any disturbance to nearby residents or workers.
In a National Park
While the National Trust doesn’t have an official stance on scattering ashes in a public park, many families have previously received approval to do so. To scatter ashes on National Trust grounds, it’s advisable to secure written consent from the property manager. Typically, permission is given with the expectation that the scattering will be conducted discreetly, without any remaining grave markers. The property manager can also help in finding you a suitable location for the scattering.
On private land
If you have permission from the landowner, there are no UK laws or rules preventing you from scattering ashes on private land. However, if the property changes hands, the new owner might not be open to allowing visits to the scattering site.
Likewise, if you’re the homeowner and decide to scatter ashes in your own garden, you won’t need to seek anyone’s permission. It’s also worth considering that if you ever move house, you may not have the chance to return to the site.
What paperwork do you need to take ashes on a plane?
You’re allowed to carry ashes on a flight if you plan to scatter them elsewhere in the world. All you’ll need are the following documents:
– Death certificate
– Cremation certificate
– Certification of urn sealing
– A written confirmation from the Crematorium confirming the cremation took place and the contents of the urn
– Any proof of your relationship to the deceased
How to bring ashes on a plane
When taking ashes on a plane, ensure the ashes are in a non-metallic container in your carry-on luggage so that it can be scanned by an X-ray at security, and that is properly sealed. It’s also wise to contact the airline beforehand for any special instructions, and seek advice from your destination country’s embassy upon arrival. These steps can help make your journey just a little bit smoother and more respectful.
Who can scatter ashes?
Anyone can scatter ashes, granted they have permission from the executor of the will. It’s the executor’s duty to honour the deceased’s wishes if known. However, if there’s no will, it falls on the next of kin to ensure a proper farewell.
During a memorial service, you could also involve the guests in the scattering process to create a more inclusive atmosphere. In fact, giving each attendee a small portion of the ashes to scatter allows everyone to participate and share their thoughts if they choose.
How to scatter ashes?
Scattering ashes is a deeply personal ritual, offering a unique opportunity to bid farewell in a way that reflects the life and spirit of the departed. Begin by selecting a meaningful location, such as a serene natural setting or cherished landmark. Then, make sure you have any necessary permissions, especially for private or restricted land.
Open the container, scattering the ashes gently and thoughtfully, considering the wind and your surroundings. Some choose to accompany the scattering with heartfelt words or moments of silence.
Afterwards, take time for personal reflection and to honour the memory of your loved one.
You can also choose to mark the plot with a cremation memorial so that mourners have a place to visit. You can personalise your chosen design and space by incorporating a photograph, beautiful headstone inscriptions or motif that best represents their life. Contact Memorials of Distinction today to create a lasting tribute in a location that holds special significance.
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