Crematorium recycling scheme raises £12.5k for bereavement charities

A recycling scheme at a crematorium has raised £12,500 in the last year to support charities in the area.

The unusual scheme has been run from Hither Green crematorium, in Verdant Lane.

With consent of relatives, The Recycling of Metals Scheme retrieves and recycles items such as medical pins, plates, wires, screws, rods, and artificial joints following a cremation. 

The proceeds from this recycling effort are then donated to charities that support terminally ill individuals or bereaved families. 

Money raised from this year’s profits will be split between Catford’S pregnancy and baby loss charity SANDS, St Christopher’s Children’s Hospice and Citizens Advice Lewisham.

Christine Davies, Head of Fundraising at St Christopher’s Hospice said “We’re so thankful for this donation which will help us to continue to provide vital end of life care for our patients and support for their families when they need it the most.”

Funds will afford specialist equipment at St Christopher’s Hospice, one-to-one bereavement befriending for families that have experienced pregnancy and baby loss, and bereavement support provided via Citizens Advice Lewisham.  

Hannah Peck, strategic partnerships manager at SANDS said: “This support means we can continue to provide bereavement support services to local families, including our befriending services, for those who are going through some of the most challenging times of their lives. 

“We rely on donations to help make sure we can keep our services accessible and free. Thank you for making such an impact on the lives of bereaved families.”  

The Recycling of Metals Scheme is run by the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM), of which Lewisham council is a member. 

Cllr Oana Olaru-Holmes joined staff from the council’s bereavement service to hand cheques over to the charities at an event last week.

The Cabinet Member with responsibility for Bereavement services said: “We’re honoured to participate in the ICCM metal recycling scheme, allowing us to support three incredible local charities. 

“These organisations provide crucial care and assistance to our community during some of life’s most challenging moments.” 

Since signing up to the ICCM metal recycling scheme 10 years ago, Lewisham council has raised more than £170,000 for end of life and bereavement charities in the borough.  

Pictured top: Cllr Oana Olaru-Holmes (left) with St Christopher staff (Picture: Lewisham council)