St Helens Bereavement Service clinches national award

Article date: October 17 2025

The service was named the best in the country at The Cemetery of the Year Awards, which are run by the British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons (BRAMM) after fending off tough competition from across the UK for the prestigious title.

Councillor Trisha Long, Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, said: "I'm thrilled that the team have picked up the top prize for a thoroughly well-deserved win. We've claimed silver in these awards for a few years now so to finally get the Gold makes all the hard work the team put in to providing these essential services worthwhile.

"The Bereavement Services deserve this as they've really diversified their services over the last few years and offer a compassionate and caring professional service for our residents. They do support in providing many options to the bereaved such as specialist keepsakes like jewellery using the cremated remains of loved ones, to special mementos like videos of the service. And they continue to work tirelessly to support families at the most difficult time, all throughout the year.

"They also work in partnership with the Friends of St Helens Cemetery volunteer group in providing plenty of heritage events throughout the year and the monthly warm connections community café to support the bereaved by providing a safe space where the community can meet others with similar experiences. The friends group were fortunate to win for the second year running a Community Green Flag Award just earlier this year for the memorial areas they maintain within St Helens Cemetery to compliment the outstanding and beautiful grounds of the cemetery and crematorium."

The aim of the awards is to recognise and reward burial authorities that demonstrate high standards in cemetery maintenance, innovation, and support for bereaved communities to encourage best practice and compliance with legislation.

To find out more about the offer visit: www.sthelens.gov.uk/bereavement