top of page
_edited_edited_edited.jpg

The Final Act:
Navigating Death, Dying, and Funeral Care

20th October 2024

Presented by:

Elizabeth Oakes

Pure Reflections CEO

DSC_0035.png

Course
Overview

This course is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of death, dying and funeral care. From recognizing the signs of active dying to navigating post-death procedures such organising a funeral right through to obtaining a death certificate. It will cover all funeral care options including traditional burial, cremation, and the resomation process.

resomation, water cremation, direct cremation, funerals dublin, cheap funerals

Introduction:

About Elizabeth Oakes and Pure Reflections

Session 1: Understanding the Final Stages of Life: The Role of Palliative Care

Palliative care is a compassionate approach focused on enhancing the quality of life for individuals facing serious, life-limiting illnesses. This holistic form of care prioritizes symptom management and relief from pain, discomfort, and stress while addressing the emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs of both patients and their families.

 

Understanding the stages of dying, including the signs of active dying, is crucial for caregivers and loved ones. Recognizing these signs allows for appropriate comfort measures to be provided, ensuring that the individual experiences dignity and peace in their final moments. Palliative care emphasizes open communication and support for families, helping them navigate this challenging time with compassion and respect. Ultimately, it aims to provide a more meaningful and supportive experience during one of life’s most profound transitions.

 

The Difference Between the Stages of Dying and Active Dying

​​

Understanding the dying process involves recognizing that it generally unfolds in stages, each with its own characteristics. The progression through these stages varies from person to person, depending on the individual’s illness and overall health.​

 

  • Stages of Dying: The early stages may include increased fatigue, decreased interest in activities, and a reduced appetite. As the person moves closer to death, they may experience significant physical and mental changes.

​

  • Active Dying: This is the final phase of the dying process, typically lasting from a few days to a week. It is characterized by more pronounced and specific signs that indicate death is imminent. The body begins to shut down, and the person’s needs and care requirements change substantially during this period.

​

​

Signs of Active Dying

​​

Physical Signs

​​

As death approaches, the body undergoes a series of physical changes that signal the end of life is near. These signs can help caregivers and family members understand that death is imminent, allowing them to provide appropriate care and emotional support.​

 

  • Decreased Appetite and Thirst

  • Changes in Breathing Patterns

  • Skin Colour Changes

  • Decreased Urine Output

​

Emotional and Psychological Signs​

 

The emotional and psychological changes during active dying can be just as significant as the physical ones. These signs often reflect the body’s preparation for the end of life.

 

  • Withdrawal

  • Restlessness

  • Changes in Consciousness

Session 2: Navigating the Immediate Aftermath of Death

What to Do Immediately After Death

​​

Legal Pronouncement of Death​

 

The legal pronouncement of death is the formal declaration by a qualified healthcare professional that a person has died. This is the first and most critical step following a death, as it legally confirms the individual's passing.

​​

Who Can Pronounce Death

​​

In Ireland, a doctor typically pronounces death, especially in a hospital or hospice setting. If the death occurs at home and was expected, the attending physician or an out-of-hours doctor can perform this task. If the death is unexpected, the Garda and a doctor will be involved, and a post-mortem examination may be required. This is sometimes referred to as a coroner’s case.

​​

Documentation

​​

After pronouncing the death, the doctor will complete a medical certificate also known as a ‘Death Notification Form’ stating the cause of death. This document is essential for registering the death and obtaining a death certificate. If the family want to proceed with a cremation or resomation the attending doctor must fill out ‘Form C’, a medical certificate for resomation or cremation. This form is available on our website. In certain circumstances when the attending doctor is not available or is not willing to fill in ‘Form C’ the case will be referred to the coroner. The coroner may then request a post mortem and they will fill in ‘Form D’ which is used instead of the doctors certificate.

​​​

 

Initial Steps to Take, Including Contacting Pure Reflection or your Funeral Director

​​

Once death has been legally confirmed, several immediate actions must be taken:

​​

  • Notify Close Family and Friends: Informing those closest to the deceased is a priority. This can be an emotionally challenging task, so it may help to ask someone for support in making these calls.

​​

  • Contacting Pure Reflections or your local Funeral Director: Depending on the type of funeral the family wish for, it’s important to contact either Pure Reflections or your local funeral director as soon as possible. They will guide you through the next steps, including the transportation of the body, preparation for resomation, burial or cremation, and handling necessary paperwork

​​​

  • Handling the Deceased’s Body: Pure Reflections or your chosen funeral director will arrange for the deceased's body to be moved to the resomarium or funeral home. If the death occurred at home, the body can remain there for a period of time to allow family members to say their final goodbyes. If a family chooses a private resomation through Pure Reflections, this is a very important time for them to gather around and get the closure and time they need to process and acknowledge the death and spend time with their loved one.

​

​

Looking After Your Loved One at Home Once a Death Occurs​

 

Caring for a loved one at home after death is a practice that many find deeply meaningful. It allows family members and friends to honour the deceased in a personal and intimate way, offering time to say goodbye and creating a peaceful environment. Here’s a detailed guide on how to care for your loved one’s body at home after they have passed away:

​

1. Initial Steps

​​

Ensure Legal Pronouncement of Death

​​

  • Before anything else, a medical professional should confirm and pronounce the death. This step is necessary for obtaining the Medical Certificate of the Cause of Death otherwise known as the Death Notification Form, which you will need to register the death officially.

​

Take a Moment to Honour Your Loved One

​​

  • It’s important to take this time to be with your loved one before beginning any physical care. This can be a time for quiet reflection, prayer, or simply being present.

​

2. Preparing the Body

​​

Elevating the Head

​​

  • Why: Elevating the head slightly using a pillow or rolled towel placed under the head and shoulders helps to prevent the pooling of blood, which can cause discoloration.

​​​

  • How: Gently lift the head and shoulders and place a pillow or cushion underneath. This will help maintain a more natural appearance.

 

Positioning the Hands

​​

  • Why: Placing the hands in a natural position can convey a sense of peace and dignity. The hands are often placed on the abdomen, which is a traditional and restful pose. This is also important to stop discolouration in the fingers and hands.

​​

  • How: Cross the hands gently over the abdomen. This position looks serene and is often how people are positioned in the coffin.

​

Placing a Pad

​​

  • Why: After death, the body may release fluids due to the relaxation of muscles. Placing a pad on the deceased can help manage this and maintain cleanliness.

​​​

  • How: Carefully roll the body and place the pad underneath. This is done to absorb any potential leakage from the body and is a practical step in maintaining dignity.

​

Closing the Mouth

​​

  • Why: The mouth often remains open after death due to muscle relaxation. Closing it can help the deceased appear more peaceful.

​​

  • How: Gently close the mouth by supporting the chin, and if necessary, place a rolled towel or cloth under the chin to keep it in place.

​

 

3. Maintaining the Environment

​​

Keeping the Room Cool

​​

  • Why: The rate of decomposition is slowed in cooler temperatures. Keeping the room cool will help preserve the body for a longer period, especially if there is a delay before the body is collected or if you plan to keep the body at home for viewing.

​​

  • How: Ensure that the room is well-ventilated and kept at a lower temperature. If possible, close curtains or blinds to keep out direct sunlight, and consider using fans to maintain a cool environment in the hot summer months.

 

Lighting Incense / Scented Candles​

 

  • Why: Incense can create a soothing and peaceful atmosphere, masking any odors and providing a sense of calm. Many cultures use incense as part of their death rituals, as it is believed to purify the space and guide the spirit of the deceased.

​​​

  • How: Choose incense that is meaningful to you or your loved one. Light it in the room where the body is resting, ensuring it is placed in a safe holder away from flammable materials.

​

4. Time with the Deceased

​​

Allowing Family and Friends to Say Goodbye

​​

  • Why: Spending time with the deceased can help with the grieving process. It allows family members and friends to say their final goodbyes in a personal and private setting.

​​​

  • How: You may choose to keep the body at home for several hours or even a few days, depending on your wishes. Make sure to communicate with your chosen provider about when the body should be transferred to their premises.

 

 

Honouring Your Loved One

​​

  • Why: This final act of care can be a meaningful way to honour your loved one’s life and legacy, creating a sense of closure and peace.

​​

  • How: Personalize the experience by including elements that reflect the deceased’s life, such as displaying photos, sharing memories, or creating a small memorial in the room.

 

Looking after a loved one at home after death is an intimate and personal choice that allows for a unique and meaningful farewell. By following these steps, you can ensure that your loved one is treated with dignity and care, while also creating a peaceful environment for yourself and others to begin the grieving process.

​

​​

Funeral Service Considerations​

 

  • Timing of Burial, Cremation or Resomation: In Ireland a funeral typically takes place over a 2-5 day period. The timing depend largely on the documentation being in order, time slots available in the crematorium and also the availability of the funeral directors and cars for transportation such as hearses and staff. If a family choose a private resomation we will guarantee to hand deliver the urn back to the family within four working days. They can then have the celebration of life or funeral service at a time that is suitable for all.

​​

  • Funeral Services: The type of service—whether it’s a religious ceremony, a secular memorial, or a celebration of life—will be guided by the deceased’s beliefs and the family's wishes.

​​​

  • Understanding Grief and Bereavement

​​​​

​

Stages of Grief and How They Manifest​

 

Grief is a natural response to loss and can manifest in various emotional, physical, and psychological ways. The stages of grief, though not always experienced in a linear fashion, provide a framework for understanding the grieving process:

​​

  • Denial: Initially, there may be shock or disbelief that the death has occurred. This stage serves as a defence mechanism to buffer the immediate impact of the loss.

 

  • Anger: As reality sets in, feelings of anger may arise. This anger can be directed at oneself, others, or even the deceased for leaving.

 

  • Bargaining: Individuals may try to negotiate with a higher power or with themselves, often reflecting on “what if” scenarios or imagining how the situation could have been different.

 

  • Depression: This stage is characterized by profound sadness, withdrawal, and a deep sense of loss. It's a natural and necessary part of grieving, where the individual begins to process the full impact of the death.

 

  • Acceptance: Over time, individuals may reach a stage of acceptance, where they acknowledge the reality of the loss and begin to adjust to life without their loved one. Acceptance doesn’t mean the grief is over, but it signifies a move towards a new normal.

 

  • Anger: As reality sets in, feelings of anger may arise. This anger can be directed at oneself, others, or even the deceased for leaving.​

 

 

Supporting Yourself and Others Through the Grieving Process

​​

Grief is a deeply personal experience, and everyone copes differently. Providing support during this time is crucial:

​​

  • Listening and Presence: Offering a non-judgmental ear and simply being present can be one of the most comforting things you can do for someone who is grieving. Allow them to express their feelings without trying to "fix" their pain.

​​

  • Encouraging Self-Care: Encourage those grieving to take care of their physical and emotional health. This might include eating well, getting enough rest, and finding ways to express their grief, such as through journaling, art, or talking to a counsellor.

​​​

  • Seeking Professional Support: Grief counselling or support groups can be incredibly beneficial. These resources provide a space to share experiences with others who are going through similar losses and to receive guidance from trained professionals.

 

 

Available Resources for Bereavement Support in Ireland

​​

Ireland offers various resources to help individuals and families navigate the grieving process:​

 

  • Bereavement Counselling: Organizations like the Irish Hospice Foundation provide counselling services for those who are grieving. These can be accessed in person or online.

​​

  • Support Groups: Local communities and religious institutions often host support groups for those who have lost a loved one. These groups provide a space to share experiences and receive mutual support.

​​

  • Online Resources: Websites like Citizens Information provide practical guidance on dealing with bereavement, including financial advice, dealing with legal matters, and accessing grief support.

Session 3: Funeral Care Options

Embalming, what is it and is it necessary?

​

In Ireland there is no regulation with regards to embalming or funeral directors. Embalming is the process of preserving a deceased person's body to delay decomposition, making it suitable for viewing at a funeral home or for longer-term preservation. The process involves treating the body with chemicals that slow down the natural breakdown of tissues. Embalming is not required by law, it is down to personal preferences. 


The Embalming Process

​

1. Arterial Injection: A preservative chemical, usually formaldehyde-based, is injected into the body through the carotid artery. This chemical circulates through the bloodstream, replacing body fluids and blood and preserving tissues. The blood is released through the jugular vein.

​

2. Cavity Treatment: Fluids are removed from the body cavities, like the abdomen and chest, using an instrument called a trocar, and replaced with preservative chemicals.

​

3. Surface Treatments: The body may also be treated externally with preservative or disinfectant chemicals.

​

4. Cosmetic Enhancements: Makeup and other cosmetic treatments are often applied to give the deceased a natural appearance, especially for open-coffin funerals.


Environmental Impact of Embalming

​

Embalming can have significant environmental consequences:

​

1. Chemical Pollution: The embalming process uses chemicals like formaldehyde, methanol, and phenol. Formaldehyde, in particular, is a toxic substance that can leach into the soil and groundwater after burial. It is also a known carcinogen, posing health risks to embalmers and to the environment.

​

2. Impact on Soil and Water: Over time, embalmed bodies buried in the ground can release these chemicals into the soil and water table, contributing to environmental pollution. Cemeteries with many embalmed bodies can become concentrated sources of these pollutants.

​

While embalming is sometimes necessary or desired, it is not a requirement in all cases, and there are significant environmental concerns associated with the practice. For those looking to minimize their environmental footprint, alternatives like green burials or resomation are preferable options. Please note that embalming does not affect the resomation process in any way. 


Traditional Burial

​

Overview of the Burial Process in Ireland

​

Burial remains one of the most common funeral options in Rural Ireland, but in cities the move towards cremation is now at over 70%.

​

  • Burial Procedure: The process typically involves several steps, including preparation of the body, selection of a burial plot, and the burial service itself. The body is usually placed in a coffin or casket and then interred in the ground at a cemetery.

 

  • Costs: The costs associated with a traditional burial can include the purchase of a coffin, burial plot, opening the grave, a headstone, and funeral services. It's important to understand these costs and plan accordingly.

​

Selecting a Burial Site and Understanding Cemetery Regulations

 

Choosing a burial site is an important decision that involves practical and emotional considerations:

 

Cemetery Regulations: Each cemetery may have specific regulations regarding who can be buried there, the types of headstones allowed, and the maintenance of graves. It’s essential to check these regulations before purchasing a plot.

 

Types of Plots: Options include single plots, double plots (for spouses), or family plots. Some cemeteries also offer green or natural burial options, which focus on environmentally friendly practices. There is one natural burial ground in Wicklow.

 

Location Considerations: The location of the burial site can be influenced by family connections, religious beliefs, or personal preferences. Some families choose a site close to home, while others may select a cemetery with historical or ancestral significance.

 

 

Funeral Rites and Rituals

 

Funeral rites and rituals vary greatly depending on cultural, religious, and personal preferences:

 

  • Religious Ceremonies: In Ireland, Catholic funerals are the most common and typically include a Requiem Mass, prayers, and the final committal at the graveside, crematorium or resomarium.

 

  • Celebration of Life Services: For those who do not wish to have a religious service, secular or humanist ceremonies can be arranged. These focus on celebrating the life of the deceased, often with readings, music, and personal tributes.

 

  • Traditional Customs: Ireland has a rich tradition of funeral customs, such as the Irish wake, where friends and family gather to honour the deceased, often with storytelling, music, and shared memories.

 

 

Cremation

 

The Cremation Process Explained

 

Cremation is an increasingly popular alternative to burial in Ireland, offering flexibility and different memorialization options:

 

  • Cremation Procedure: The body is placed in a coffin and then into a cremation chamber, where it is exposed to high temperatures ranging from 1000 to 1300 degrees Celsius. During this process, combustion occurs, burning all the flesh and reducing the body to bones (ashes) after a few hours. These remains are then collected, left to cool, cremulated or processed down to the ash that is then placed in an urn.

 

  • Environmental Considerations: Cremation is considered more environmentally friendly than traditional burial, but it still has a significant carbon footprint. Each cremation releases around 250 kg of carbon dioxide due to the high temperatures required. In addition to carbon dioxide, pollutants like nitrogen oxides and mercury can also be emitted, contributing to its environmental impact.

 

 

Introduction to Resomation (Alkaline Hydrolysis)

 

What is Resomation, and How Does It Differ from Cremation?

 

  • Resomation Explained: Resomation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, is an innovative and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cremation and burial. This process uses water, heat, and an alkaline solution to bring the body back to its chemical components, resulting in a process that is more sustainable and gentle when compared to flame-based cremation or burial.

​​​

  • The Process: Resomation / Alkaline Hydrolysis: With resomation, the body is placed in a specialised chamber with a solution of water and potassium hydroxide (alkaline substances). The chamber is then heated, because the vessel is pressurized the water heats but does not boil.

​​

  • Body Breakdown: Over the course of 3-4 hours, the combination of heat, pressure, and alkaline solution accelerates the natural decomposition process bringing the body’s tissues back into their basic chemical components. (This is the same process that happens by soil bacteria after a body is buried but this process can take over 20 years to complete after burial due to embalming, polyester clothing and plastic lined coffins.)

​

  • Final Product: After resomation, all that remains are the bones, which are then dried and reduced to a fine white powder, similar to the ashes produced by traditional cremation. The remaining liquid is sterile and composed of water, salts, amino acids, and peptides, which will be safely returned to the eco system.

​

 

How Resomation Differs from Traditional Cremation

 

While both resomation and cremation ultimately result in a form of ash or powder that can be returned to the family, the processes and environmental impacts are quite different:

 

Method of Body Breakdown

 

  • Resomation: Uses water and alkaline to mimic the natural decomposition process in an accelerated manner. It is a gentle process that doesn’t involve flames or high temperatures.

 

  • Cremation: Involves the incineration of the body at high temperatures of about 1000-1300 degrees in a cremation chamber, reducing the body to bones through combustion.

 

Environmental Impact

 

  • Resomation: Is more environmentally friendly because it uses significantly less energy than flame cremation and does not release harmful emissions like carbon dioxide, mercury, or other pollutants into the atmosphere. It is carbon neutral.

 

  • Cremation: Although it is often viewed as a more eco-friendly option compared to burial, traditional cremation still contributes to air pollution and has a higher carbon footprint due to the energy required for incineration and the release of greenhouse gases and other pollutants during the process.

 

  • Burial: This is considered the least environmentally friendly due to the high land usage and also the toxic chemicals being released into the soil and ultimately back into the water table.

 

End Product

 

  • Resomation: Results in a fine white powder similar to cremation ash, but the process typically yields 50% more bones due to the gentle nature of resomation. After resomation we call the bones hydrolysed remain not ash because there is no burning involved.

 

  • Cremation: Produces ashes that may contain various elements, including bone fragments, metal particles from the coffin or prostetics . The bones are pulverized after the process to create a finer ash.

 

Time Required

 

  • Resomation: Takes 3-4 hours to complete, which is comparable to or slightly longer than the time required for a cremation.

​​

  • Cremation: Typically takes about 2 to 3 hours, with additional time needed for cooling and processing the remains.

 

 

Why Resomation?

​

For those who are environmentally conscious, resomation offers an appealing alternative to traditional cremation or burial. It aligns with the values of sustainability and reduced environmental impact, making it an increasingly popular option in Ireland. As awareness and acceptance of resomation grow, it will become a preferred choice for individuals and families looking for an eco-friendly end-of-life option.

​

Requirements and Documentation

​​

To proceed with a resomation or cremation, certain steps must be followed:

​

  • Form A - Funeral director form – Pure Reflections or your chosen Funeral director will fill in this form.

 

  • Form B - Next of Kin Authorisation form - This resomation / cremation form must be completed, often by the executor of the estate or the next of kin. This form authorizes the resomation/cremation to proceed.

 

  • Form C - Medical Certification by the attending Doctor - Before cremation or resomation can take place, a medical certificate is required to confirm the cause of death. This ensures that there is no need for further investigation.

 

  • Form D - Coroners Authorisation – If the Doctor s not willing to fill in form C or if it’s a sudden or unexpected death the Coroner for the jurisdiction will be notified and they will fill in this form to proceed with the resomation or cremation.

 

 

Options for Hydrolysed Remains/Ashes, Including Scattering, Burial, and Keepsakes

 

After cremation or resomation, the ashes or hydrolysed remains can be handled in various meaningful ways:

​

  • Scattering: They can be scattered in a place that was significant to the deceased, such as a favourite park, the sea, or a garden. In Ireland, there are no specific laws against scattering ashes, but it is advised to seek permission if scattering on private or protected land.

​​

  • Burial of Ashes: They can also be buried in a family grave or a special urn garden. This allows for a permanent memorial site.

 

  • Keepsakes and Memorials: They can be kept in an urn, incorporated into jewelery, or placed in a decorative object. This allows family members to keep a part of the deceased close.

 

​
 

Session 4: Legal and Administrative Aspects

Step-by-Step Guide to Registering a Death

 

In Ireland, registering a death is a legal requirement that must be completed to obtain a death certificate, which is necessary for various legal and administrative tasks. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

 

1. Obtain a Death Notification Form or Medical Certificate

 

When a person dies, a doctor must confirm the cause of death and issue a Death Notification Form (DNF) previously referred to as the Medical Certificate of the Cause of Death (MCCD). This certificate is crucial as it serves as proof of death and is required to register the death. This form is usually available from the attending Doctor or Coroners office.

 

2. Visit the Civil Registration Office

 

The death must be registered at a Civil Registration Office, where the Registrar will record the details of the death. This should be done as soon as possible, ideally within 5 days of the death.

 

3. Present Required Documentation

 

You will need to bring the following documents to the Civil Registration Office:

 

  • DNF or MCCD issued by the doctor.

 

  • Personal ID: The person registering the death should bring a form of identification (e.g., passport, driver’s license).

 

  • Personal Details of the Deceased: These include the deceased’s full name, date and place of birth, occupation, marital status, and address.

 

  • Details of the Death: Information such as the date and place of death and the deceased’s age at the time of death.

 

4. Completing the Registration

 

The Registrar will use the provided information to complete the death registration. They will then be able to issue a Death Certificate.

 

Required Documentation and Timelines

 

Documentation

 

  • Medical Certificate (MCCD) or Death notification form (DNF): From the attending doctor.

 

  • Personal Identification: For the informant (person registering the death).

 

  • Details of the Deceased: Full name, birth date, occupation, and address.

 

 

Timeline

 

Within 5 Days: The death should be registered as soon as possible after the death, ideally within 5 days.

 

Exceptions: In some cases, such as when a death is sudden or unexplained, a coroner may need to be involved, which could delay the process.

​

 

Understanding the Role of the Registrar

 

The Registrar plays a vital role in the official recording of deaths:

 

Guidance: Registrars can provide guidance on the registration process and the documentation required, helping families navigate this administrative task during a difficult time.

​

 

Obtaining a Death Certificate

 

The Process of Applying for a Death Certificate

 

Once a death is registered, obtaining a death certificate is straightforward:

 

1. Death Registration: Ensure that the death has been registered at the Civil Registration Office.

 

2. Request the Certificate: You can request the death certificate either in person at the Civil Registration Office, by post, or online through the Irish Civil Registration Service website.

 

3. Fees: A fee is usually required to obtain the death certificate. Multiple copies can be purchased if needed for various legal and administrative purposes.

​

 

Why a Death Certificate is Important

 

A death certificate is a crucial legal document that serves multiple purposes:

 

  • Legal Proof of Death: It is required for legal processes such as settling the deceased’s estate, claiming life insurance, and notifying banks or pension providers.

 

  • Administrative Needs: It is needed for tasks like closing accounts, transferring property, and applying for social welfare benefits for surviving family members.

​​

 

Funeral Help and Grants available

 

In Ireland, several financial supports are available to help families with funeral costs. These include:

 

1. Exceptional Needs Payment (ENP)

 

  • Administered by: Department of Social Protection.

 

  • Eligibility: This payment is available to people who cannot pay for funeral expenses out of their income or savings. It is means-tested, so your income and assets will be assessed.

 

  • Application Process: You can apply through your local Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office. You'll need to provide details about the deceased, the funeral expenses, and your financial situation.

 

 

2. Widow's, Widower's, or Surviving Civil Partner's Pension (Contributory and Non-Contributory)

 

  • Administered by: Department of Social Protection.

 

  • Eligibility: If your spouse or civil partner has passed away, you might be eligible for a contributory or non-contributory pension, which can help alleviate financial stress.

 

  • Application Process: This payment is based on your spouse's or civil partner’s PRSI contributions (for the contributory pension) or on a means test (for the non-contributory pension).

 

 

3. Death Benefit under the Occupational Injuries Scheme

 

  • Administered by: Department of Social Protection.

​​

  • Eligibility: If the deceased person’s death was due to an accident at work or an occupational disease, you may be eligible for a death benefit.

 

  • Application Process: This requires a specific application through the Department of Social Protection.

​

 

4. Guardian's Payment (Contributory and Non-Contributory)

​

  • Administered by: Department of Social Protection.

 

  • Eligibility: If you are taking care of a child who has been orphaned or whose parents cannot care for them, you may be eligible for this payment.

 

  • Application Process: Similar to the Widow's/Widower's Pension, the contributory payment is based on PRSI contributions, while the non-contributory payment is means-tested.

 

 

5. Funeral Expenses Payment (under certain circumstances)

​

  • Administered by: Department of Social Protection.

​​

  • Eligibility: In some cases, you might be eligible for help with funeral costs if the death occurred in tragic circumstances or involved a young person.

 

  • Application Process: This is typically considered under the Exceptional Needs Payment scheme.

​​

It’s important to contact your local Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office as soon as possible after a death to discuss the specific supports that may be available to you. Each payment has specific eligibility criteria and application processes, so gathering all necessary documentation and acting promptly can help ease the financial burden during this difficult time.

​

​

Pure Reflections Pre-Paid Funeral Plan

​

This allows individuals to arrange and pay for their funeral in advance, locking in current prices and reducing the financial and decision-making burden on surviving family members. It’s important to understand the terms and what is covered by these plans.

​

Considerations: Ensure that any pre-paid plan is clearly documented and that the executor or next of kin is aware of its existence and the specific arrangements covered.

Session 5: Final Reflections and Q&A

Personalizing Funeral Services

 

Creating Meaningful Ceremonies

 

  • Reflecting the Deceased’s Life: A personalized funeral can celebrate the life of the deceased by incorporating elements that reflect their personality, interests, and values. This could include specific music, readings, or themes.

 

  • Cultural and Religious Elements: Many families find comfort in including religious rituals or cultural traditions that were significant to the deceased, such as prayers, specific ceremonies, or symbols.

 

  • Unique Tributes: Consider creating unique tributes such as video montages, memory boards, or a book where attendees can share their memories and condolences.

 

  • Involving Family and Friends: Encourage family and friends to participate in the service, whether through speeches, readings, or other forms of tribute. This helps to create a more personal and connected experience for everyone involved.

Sample Celebration Of Life Service

Opening Song

 

The Parting Glass

​

​​

Welcome and Opening Remarks

​​

Today, we gather not to mourn but to celebrate the incredible life of our (mum/dad), (Name). (He/She) was a person who touched so many hearts with (his/her) warmth, kindness, and infectious sense of humor. (He/She) truly made the world a brighter place just by being in it.

 

As we begin this celebration of life, I want to thank everyone for being here today. Your presence is a reflection of the love and support you have shown our family during this time, and it means the world to us.

​

 

Sharing Memories and Stories

​​

Now, we would love to hear some stories and memories of our (mum/dad). If anyone would like to share a story, please feel free to come up. I’d like to start by sharing one of my own…

​

 

Speaker

(Family member or friend)

​

 

Remembrance

​​

My (mum/dad) was my greatest teacher and friend, always showing kindness, strength, and love. No matter how busy life got, (he/she) always found time for me—offering advice, cheering me on, or simply being there.​

​

Though I will miss (him/her) deeply, I take comfort in knowing (he/she) will always be with me, in the love and lessons (he/she) gave. I am forever grateful to have been (his/her) (son/daughter), and (he/she) will always hold a special place in my heart.

​​

 

Song of Reflection

​​

"Tears in Heaven" by Eric Clapton

​

 

Closing Remarks

​​

On behalf of our family, thank you again for being here to honour my (mum/dad), (Name). We are comforted by your love and support, and knowing (he/she) touched so many lives gives us peace.

​​

​

Closing Song

​​

"Time to Say Goodbye" by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman

Why Choose Pure Reflections?

At Pure Reflections, we are revolutionising the funeral industry through our Private Resomation funeral service. By choosing this option, families can make an informed and environmentally friendly choice for their loved ones final farewell. It's time to embrace a new era of end-of-life care – one that honours the past, respects the present, and preserves the future.​

​

As we prioritise compassionate care and honouring your loved ones with dignity and respect, we are proud to offer our full funeral service with a Private Resomation or Celebration Of Life in our facility. This option offers an alternative to traditional flame cremation and burial, eliminating the need for a coffin or embalming, therefore reducing unnecessary costs, embracing environmental kindness and offering families the opportunity to create a more personalised service for their loved ones.

 

If you would like a traditional service, we work in affiliation with all the funeral directors nationwide. Simply request Resomation and we will liaise with them directly.

 

The Resomation takes place in our own Resomarium in Co. Meath, under the exceptional care of our in-house team from start to finish. Your loved ones care journey is of the utmost importance to us and we are committed to serving each family with care, compassion and dignity.

​

  • Offering choices around end-of-life care

  • Fully guaranteed prepaid plans available

  • Sustainable

  • Eco-Friendly

  • Affordable

  • Your funeral, your way

Pure Reflections
Funeral Packages

Full Funeral Service Through

Pure Reflections with Private Resomation

​

The Ultimate Green Choice

A service for families nationwide

​

Professional services and facility..............................................€1800

*Transfer........................................................................................€400

Resomation Fee..........................................................................€1500

Pure Reflections Standard Urn Package.............................Included

__________________________________________________________​

 

Total Package Value.................................................................€3700

 

​Optional:

Coffin..............................................................................................€600

*If the family would like to have a committal service at our facility

Bespoke Ceramic Pure Reflections Urn.....................................€390

Forever Link Smart Memorial Card...............................................€15

Hourglass Necklace...................................................................€49.99

Full Funeral Service Through 
Pure Reflections with Committal Service

​

A service for families nationwide

​

Professional services and facility..............................................€1800

*Transfer........................................................................................€400

Resomation Fee..........................................................................€1500

Coffin..............................................................................................€600

*Proceeds will go directly to our Infant Loss Program

Pure Reflections Standard Urn Package.............................Included

__________________________________________________________​

 

Total Package Value.................................................................€4300

 

​Optional:

Bespoke Ceramic Pure Reflections Urn.....................................€390

Forever Link Smart Memorial Card...............................................€15

Hourglass Necklace...................................................................€49.99

              Resomation Service             

​​

A service for Funeral Directors and Families Nationwide

​​

Resomation Fee..........................................................................€1500

*this includes 40 min use of the chapel

​

Pure Reflections Standard Urn Package.............................Included

__________________________________________________________​

 

Total Package Value.................................................................€1500

 

​Optional:

Extra 40 mins use of Chapel for Committal Ceremony............€200

Bespoke Ceramic Pure Reflections Urn.....................................€390

Forever Link Smart Memorial Card...............................................€15

Hourglass Necklace...................................................................€49.99

Professional services, commodities, and facilities

The goods and services shown below are those we can provide to our customers. You may choose only the items you desire. However, any funeral arrangements you select will include a charge for our professional services.

​

 

Each item shows the services to be rendered by our funeral service staff under that heading and the price for those services is included in the price of the item; there will be no added fee for the use of our funeral service staff besides the prices shown for the services selected.

​

 

Transfer of deceased

Price: €400

​

Including vehicle and personnel (within a 75 km radius)

For more than 150 km (round trip), additional charge of €0.50 per km over 150.

​

 

Professional Services and Facilities

Price: €1800

​

This includes a discussion with you and implementation of desired arrangements; preparing and securing signatures for resomation forms; obtaining necessary releases and permits from doctors and coroners; clerical and staff personnel to prepare necessary documents, RIP.ie; use of the mortuary building and preparation of your loved one for resomation and overheads.

​

 

Refrigeration

Price: €60 per day

​

There is no charge for the first 48 hours , thereafter, if due to family arrangements the deceased needs to be kept for a period of time in refrigeration at our facility there is a daily charge of €60.

​

 

Coffin

Price: €600

​

Use of a recycled coffin for the committal service at our facility. The coffin will be closed so no embalming will be necessary.

​

 

Resomation

Price: €1500

​

This includes the personal care of your loved one and the Resomation itself.

​

 

Additional Time In The Chapel

Price: €200

​

Depending on the service you choose, our chapel is available for a committal service. We will provide personnel to receive and care for visitors. The standard chapel usage time is 40 minutes. However, if the family wishes to extend the duration by an additional 40 minutes, there will be an extra charge of €200.

​

 

Child

​

A child is anyone under the age of 13 at the date of death.

 

To ensure smooth and timely arrangements, we kindly request that all services be paid in advance.

 

If you have any questions regarding any of the above information, please feel free to contact us.

bottom of page