Residents are being invited to find out how loved ones are cared for and what happens behind the scenes when a funeral is arranged at Haycombe Cemetery and Crematorium.
Haycombe Cemetery and Crematorium | Photo © ColinPeachey / Shutterstock.com
B&NES Council’s Bereavement Services team is inviting visitors to tour the memorial gardens and its Hilltop and Valley Chapels, find out how the crematorium operates and learn how bereaved families are supported as they plan their final goodbyes during a special open day on Saturday 5th October.
Residents can also find out about the many ways loved ones can be remembered at Haycombe and how the most up-to-date systems are used to provide music, visual tributes and live streaming to give people the sendoff they deserve.
The in-house funeral celebrant will be on hand to advise visitors on arranging non-religious services that are tailored to the wishes of their loved ones, as well as burial services, committals, tributes and memorial services.
People can also learn more about the work the council is doing at Haycombe to combat the climate and ecological emergency, including reducing carbon emissions by installing a filtration system to eliminate nitrogen oxide and increasing biodiversity with new woodland, wildflower meadows and a beehive.
The open day will run from 10am until 1pm with light refreshments available.
There will be guided tours at 10.15am, 11.00am, 11.45am and 12.30pm during which visitors will be taken into the crematorium and can ask questions about the cremation process.
Councillor Tim Ball, cabinet member for neighbourhood services, said: “Saying goodbye to someone you care about is never easy and making funeral arrangements can feel overwhelming.
“We are holding this open day to help families and friends gain a better understanding of the cremation process and find out about the end-of-life choices available, so you have the knowledge when you need it.
“As the only crematorium in Bath and North East Somerset, Haycombe plays an important role within the community, offering a dignified and sensitive service to people of all faiths and beliefs – or none.
“Our facilities are designed to be accessible to everyone and I hope many residents will join us to find out more on the day.”
The council is also a member of the not-for-profit Recycling of Metals Scheme run by the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM), in which – with consent from families – common metal objects are collected from cremators such as medical pins, metal plates and artificial joints for recycling.
The money raised is divided between ICCM members for distribution among local charities.
