Plots

Plots are available for burials and for ashes. All burial plots are single depth, but an adjacent plot can be reserved where family members with to be buried alongside each other. The purchase of a plot entitles the purchaser to the right of burial for that plot for a period of 100 years. Graves are dug by hand and reinstated immediately after the funeral has taken place.

Ecological requirements

Coffins and caskets must be fully biodegradable, including the handles and nameplates. Many families opt for wicker, bamboo or seagrass coffins, but solid un-varnished wood, cardboard and wool are other options. Floral tributes must be fully biodegradable, such as bouquets tied with raffia. Oasis and cellophane must not be left at the site. No embalming may take place.

Grave marking and memorials

Graves are marked by a simple wooden stake with a small copper nameplate. A tree may be purchased, which we will plant at the head end of the grave during the winter.  A wide range of native trees are available, and all trees are sourced from a specialist Lincolnshire tree nursery.  Any trees dying within 10 years of planting will be replaced.

Funeral services

The vast majority of families using Birdsong for a burial employ a funeral director. A small number of families organise the funeral themselves. We are not able to provide any services that would usually be provided by a funeral director, but are happy to talk to families wanting a self organised funeral, to help them make informed choices that are compatabile with a burial at Birdsong. There is an excellent article for families considering a self organised funeral here: http://www.naturaldeath.org.uk/uploads/images/DIY%20Funerals%202019%20New2.pdf

The future

The land at Birdsong is owned by a trust and it is intended that the site will continue to be a woodland with public access once it is full. Adjacent land is in the same ownership, so it is hoped that the burial site can expand (subject to planning permission) and burials can continue for the foreseeable future.