CEREMONIES
We want to make it possible for individuals, couples and families in our area to have dignified non-religious ceremonies for funerals and weddings and also to welcome new family members (baby-naming), if that is their wish.
The British Humanist Association has a nation-wide organisation of accredited Humanist Celebrants and Officiants who can be called upon to conduct such ceremonies.
The increasing demand for non-religious ceremonies has prompted the emergence of other organisations and individuals offering to conduct such ceremonies. Also, the Registrars who used to confine their function to the registration of civil marriages, births and deaths, are also expanding their role to encompass civil ceremonies for all the rites of passage.
For Humanist funerals, Funeral Directors (undertakers) will generally know who can be available in their area so that they can help the bereaved family, or others making the arrangements, to have the kind of ceremony they want.
Humanist funerals are most often cremations at the local crematorium but sometimes a burial is preferred. All crematoria are open for use by all, regardless of religious or non-religious belief.
Local authorities must also provide burial space other than consecrated church yards, for use by all. There is some movement towards so-called "environmentally friendly" funeral practices, including woodland sites and cardboard coffins. 
For help and advice about Humanist Ceremonies in our area, please contact:
Norma Halsall
Telephone: 01344 774871
Email: ceremonies@berkshirehumanists.org.uk
For an unusual Humanist funeral (Not in Berkshire)
