ICCM Question & Answer Session

Restoring Dignity: The Importance of Returning Unclaimed Ashes to Cemetery and Crematoria Sites

Richard Martin, the Founder of Scattering Ashes, joined us to shed light on what he refers to as the “lost generation” of unclaimed cremated remains, a growing concern for the UK’s funeral industry.

ICCM Question and Answer Session

With Technical Officers Sofia Allan and Jennifer Hamilton

Stories for Life: Preserving Precious Memories for Future Generations

Join Barbara Altounyan, Founder of ‘Stories for Life’, a nationwide charity which records on audio the precious memories of those who are approaching the last chapter of their lives anywhere in the UK. As a completely free of charge service, Stories for Life work uniquely as the only charity of its kind in the UK and overseas. Join us to hear about the collaborative and supportive work that they do involving families to record these lived accounts in hospices, charity venues, care homes and hospital settings.

Exploring the Evolving Landscape of the Australasian Deathcare Industry

Join Ben Kelly, Chief Executive of the Australasian Cemeteries & Crematoria Association, for an engaging presentation on the Australasian deathcare industry. This session delved into the decline of traditional funeral practices, exploring challenges like the lack of national legislation, climate-related issues, and land use issues, the growth of the pet cremation sector and its impact on traditional cemeteries and crematoria. He also outlined ACCA initiatives such as the Safety Advisory Committee and the National Cremation Emissions Standards Committee.

Breaking the Silence

Drawing on recent developments, parliamentary progress, and growing sector support, John Cross will share insights into how this campaign is helping shape a more compassionate, grief-aware society. He will also highlight the role professionals across the funeral and bereavement sectors can play in supporting this vital movement.

'Baggage for the Beyond,' an exploration of grave goods in the UK today

Dr Jennifer Riley spoke about her fascinating research project looking at how the UK approaches death, the personalisation of funerals and memorials, environmental considerations and the concept of the afterlife in our modern world.