Ashes to Ashes

In light of the discovery of a rare medieval cemetery in the Vale of Glamorgan, Azim Ahmed explores funerary customs today. Dr Andy Seaman, a specialist in early medieval archaeology from the University of Cardiff, shares his findings on location at the archaeological dig site near Fonmore Castle. While graveyards might be seen as quiet reflective places today, Andy explains that in the medieval period they were often central to life and where communities might meet to undertake business, meetings and even feasting.

Dr Marianne Rozario from the Christian think tank Theos shares the conclusions from their recent report ‘Ashes to Ashes: Beliefs, Trends and Practices in dying, death and the Afterlife.’ Key findings are a growing trend towards cremation rather than burial in the UK and a rise of “celebrations of life” over traditional funerals. Author, eulogy speechwriter, and funeral celebrant Pete Billingham explains how the growth of ‘Direct Cremations’ is changing the way we remember those we’ve loved and lost, and how the digital age is shaping the modern landscape of memorial services.

Near Llandaff Weir Vimla Patel shows Azim a new multi-faith ash scattering site in the River Taff. It’s the first site of its kind in Wales and offers Hindus and Sikhs the opportunity to scatter the ashes of their loved ones near the place they call home. Traditionally ashes would be scattered in India’s holiest river, the Ganges, but Vimla explains that for second and third generation members of the Sikh and Hindu communities many would prefer ashes to be scattered in Wales.

Supporting Humanity is an award-winning charity providing mental health and bereavement support. Since the Covid pandemic they’ve been running workshops and tutorials to train younger members of the Muslim community the traditional Muslim funeral ritual of Ghusl. In the Islamic tradition it is important that burial takes place as quickly as possible and that the body should be washed and dressed before so. Trustee Sumaiya Khoda and CEO and founder Idris Patel share how they’ve been overwhelmed with the interest and dedication shown by the young people they work with. Details of organisations offering information, advice and support with bereavement are available at www.bbc.co.uk/actionline.