A proper conversation
Your celebrant listens to the people who knew the person best, gathering stories, character and the details that made them who they were.
Funeral services
A farewell that feels true to the life lived.
A civil funeral has no fixed script. It brings together the stories, music, beliefs and small details that make one person's life unmistakably their own.
What is a civil funeral?
Personal, flexible and centred on one person.
A civil funeral is a ceremony created around the person who has died, without having to follow a set religious or non-religious format. It can include faith, spirituality, neither, or a thoughtful balance of both.
The important thing is that it sounds honest. Your celebrant will spend time learning about the person, listening to the people close to them and helping you decide what the ceremony should hold.
You do not need to arrive with all the answers. A good celebrant helps you find them, one gentle question at a time.
Your ceremony
There is room for what matters to you.
The right tone
Quiet and reflective, warm and conversational, gently humorous — or a little of each.
Words that belong
A eulogy, memories, poetry, readings and music chosen because they mean something to you.
Space for every belief
Religious or spiritual elements can be included, or the ceremony can be entirely non-religious.
Family voices
Relatives and friends can speak, read or contribute memories in whatever way feels manageable.
A closer look
What a civil funeral ceremony usually includes.
A civil funeral ceremony is a dignified, formal semi or non-religious farewell created to commemorate a loved one's life and parting. Above all, it reflects the wishes of the family and those of the person who has died.
It is a highly personal tribute, shaped with a professional funeral celebrant. The most valuable element is often a carefully scripted tribute or eulogy — words about character and life, written with the help of family and friends.
How it comes together
Clear guidance, at a difficult time.
Written with care
The ceremony is shaped from scratch. You can review the words beforehand and make sure the tone feels right.
Held with confidence
On the day, your celebrant guides the ceremony calmly, supports anyone taking part and makes space for people to say goodbye.
Common questions
Things families often ask.
Can a civil funeral include prayers or hymns?
Yes. A civil funeral is shaped around the person and their family rather than following a fixed religious format. Prayers, hymns or spiritual readings can be included if they feel right.
Where can the ceremony take place?
Civil funeral ceremonies can be held at crematoria, cemeteries, natural burial grounds and other suitable venues, subject to the arrangements and requirements of the chosen location.
Can family and friends take part?
Absolutely. People can share a memory, deliver a reading, choose music or contribute in another way. Your celebrant can help everyone feel prepared and can step in if speaking becomes too difficult.
Find someone who will listen.
Search our independent funeral celebrants by county.