Lewisham Council launches low-cost cremation service

Lewisham Council has introduced new low-cost cremation and funeral options to help residents manage funeral expenses as prices for traditional services continue to rise.

The initiative includes a Simple Cremation Package priced at £1,507, offering what the council described as a respectful and straightforward alternative to a full service. The offer comes as the average cost of a cremation through a funeral director approaches £4,000, according to SunLife’s latest Cost of Dying report.

The package covers collection and care of the deceased, statutory medical paperwork, the cremation itself, and an environmentally friendly coffin. Families wishing to hold a formal service can add use of the cremation chapel for £147.

Residents planning their own arrangements can also buy a Cremation Bond, allowing them to pre-pay for a cremation at Lewisham Council’s Hither Green Cemetery crematorium at current prices. The bond secures the service in advance, with the fee fixed at the time of purchase.

Cllr Oana Olaru-Holmes, cabinet member for refugees, safer Lewisham and equalities, said: “We know that people are facing real financial challenges due to the cost of living. At such a sensitive time, it’s important that families have access to affordable and respectful options when saying goodbye to a loved one. This is why we created this new package, which helps ensure dignity, simplicity, and peace of mind for families at a difficult time.”

The service is provided by Hither Green Crematorium, managed by Lewisham Council, which said all arrangements would continue to be handled with professionalism and sensitivity.