St Helens bereavement services team celebrated in national Cemetery Awards

The team, based at St Helens Crematorium and cemetery, were once again recognised among the very best in the country for providing bereavement support for families, and their network of services available to all.

The Cemetery of the Year Awards Competition is designed to improve standards within burial grounds and encourage best practice with information and support from leading Burial Authority Organisations.

The celebrations for the St Helens team continue as the first phase of the crematorium modernisation programme, where the team is based, is now open.

The crematorium on St Helens Road is undergoing a £3.4m transformation and the first phase has seen renovation works completed to the waiting room, entrance foyer, clergy room and toilets.

Part of the modernisation of St Helens Crematorium and Cemetery

On a visit to congratulate the Services Team, Councillor Andy Bowden, Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, said:

“St Helens Crematorium and Cemetery is one of our most important assets in our borough where generations have come together to remember their loved ones. This modernisation programme will bring the striking building up to a superior standard and this first phase shows how much of a difference this can make.

“The facilities at the crematorium will also now match the outstanding service our Bereavement Services Team provide to families. This is clear by the team receiving silver in the Cemetery of the Year awards for a second year running. This accolade is testament to the amazing team who show real professionalism and care for those they work with.”

The refurbishment was on show to the public at a memorial on Saturday, September 11, for World Suicide Prevention Day, organised by St Helens Wellbeing Service and the council.

Work, including improvement to the main chapel, will now start on the next phases of the project, which will take place overnight to avoid impacting on visitors to the crematorium.