Crematorium helps to support suicide survivors

A Portsmouth support group for people affected by suicide has been given a donation of £7,000 by Havant crematorium, The Oaks.

Sue Fisher, facilitator for Portsmouth’s Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide, whose son Kevin died nine years ago aged 27, said: “The donation will go such a long way as we help anybody who is affected by loss through suicide. It is a very individual way of grieving.

“Suicide is something our loved ones have chosen to do. There are questions we will never get answers to. If my son was standing in front of me today, he couldn’t tell me why. It’s not always about ending their life. It’s about stopping what is happening in their head.

“The idea of the group is that it’s a safe place where you can say what you need to say without stigma. I will never be ‘over’ losing my son. As survivors, we put that mask on but, when we get to the group, we take that mask off.”

The money raised came from a nationwide recycling scheme run by the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management.

The scheme recycles metals which remain after cremation with the express consent of bereaved families, such as items used in the construction of the coffin or orthopaedic implants. The proceeds are then returned to the crematorium who donates the money to local charities.

Ian Rudkin, crematorium and natural burial ground manager for The Oaks, said: “The recycling of metals is done with the written consent of each bereaved family so it is from their generosity that we are able to make a difference to local causes.

“Having a special place for people to learn how to live with the loss of their loved ones is incredibly special. The Portsmouth group has been going for 15 years and we hope that this donation will enable the charity to continue for many years to come.”