St Helens Council launches webcasting service for cremation ceremonies

St Helens Council has launched a webcasting service for cremation services amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

The council said residents who have lost loved ones in these unprecedented times may have “experienced greater hardship” than in normal life, under the necessary restrictions around funeral services.

But from today (11 May) family and friends of the deceased will be able to join funeral services together online as St Helens Council launches a webcasting service for cremation ceremonies.

The webcasting service will be conducted via Microsoft Teams, so anyone wishing to use the service must have access to the free version of the app.

Under national Covid-19 guidelines and social distancing rules, funerals remain restricted to 10 mourners, meaning some family and friends have been unable to witness ceremonies and pay their respects. 

Others have had to stay at home because they are in a vulnerable group, such as those with health conditions, or because they are self-isolating with coronavirus symptoms.

Councillor Andy Bowden, cabinet member for environmental services, said: “There are many families across the borough suffering loss in such difficult times and circumstances, and who are unable to grieve and mourn in the way they’d want to.

“We’re glad to now be able to offer this webcasting service for cremations, ensuring that family and friends who aren’t able to attend in person, can pay their respects in a dignified way.”