Bereavement Services Open Day to showcase support for families and new website

Article date: 10 September 2026

The event, which will be held on Sunday 13 September 2026 from 10am to 2pm, will offer visitors a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes, take guided tours of the Crematorium and grounds, meet funeral professionals and gain a better understanding of the services available to support families following bereavement.

The Open Day will also mark the launch of a new Bereavement Services website, designed to make it easier for local people to find information and choose funeral and memorial services that best suit their personal wishes, needs and budget. Visit the website: www.sthelens.gov.uk/bereavement

Alongside the website launch, a new promotional video will showcase the facilities and compassionate support provided at St Helens Cemetery and Crematorium.

St Helens Crematorium has been a cherished place of reflection since opening in 1962. Following a major renovation in 2022, the facility now provides a modern and welcoming environment, filled with light. Its striking Dalle de Verre glass panels, depicting graceful willow trees, continue to offer a distinctive and comforting backdrop for families gathering to remember loved ones.

Nestled within the peaceful grounds of St Helens Cemetery, the Crematorium provides a tranquil setting for remembrance, reflection and commemoration.

The Open Day aims to help residents better understand the services available both at the time of need and when planning ahead for the future.

Visitors will have the opportunity to ask questions about cremation and burial options, direct funerals, memorialisation, bereavement support and funeral planning. Experts from Bereavement Services and a range of partner organisations will be on hand throughout the day to provide information and advice.

Councillor Sharon Roughley, Deputy Council Leader and Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, said:

"Planning for the future or making decisions following the loss of a loved one can feel overwhelming, so it's important that people have access to clear information and compassionate support. Our Open Day gives residents an opportunity to learn more about the services available, ask questions and meet the professionals who work tirelessly to support families during some of life's most difficult moments.

"We're also delighted to launch our new Bereavement Services website, which has been designed to help people easily find the information they need and make informed choices about funeral and memorial options.

"It's not easy, but we could all benefit by having more open conversations about death, loss and our personal wishes with our loved ones and the services that can help."

St Helens Bereavement Services continues to be recognised nationally for its commitment to excellence and high standards of care, and was last year named the best in the country, winning Gold at The Cemetery of the Year Awards.

This long-standing success reflects the dedication of staff in maintaining beautiful grounds and delivering a respectful, compassionate service for families across the borough.

Organisations confirmed to attend the Open Day include:

• Bereavement Services
• Funeral Experts
• Friends of St Helens Cemetery
• Commonwealth War Graves Commission
• Orthometals UK (metal recycling scheme)
• Willowbrook Hospice
• Local funeral directors
• Musicians and artists
• Carriage and speciality hearse providers
• Dove handlers

The event is free and no booking is required. Residents are encouraged to attend, explore the facilities and discover the support available from St Helens Borough Council's Bereavement Services and its partners.

For more information, visit the new Bereavement Services website: www.sthelens.gov.uk/bereavement.