Southampton Crematorium donates £11,600 to Parkinson’s South, Wessex Heartbeat, and Sebastian’s Trust
Southampton Crematorium, which is run by Southampton City Council, donated £3,867 to a Parkinson’s UK local support group, £3,866 to Wessex Heartbeat and £3,867 to Sebastian’s Trust in recent weeks
Southampton Crematorium has raised this money from their Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM) recycling of metals scheme. The charities have been nominated by crematorium staff.
The presentation of the cheques took place during October 2024 at Southampton Crematorium.
Leigh-Beth Stroud from Parkinson’s UK local support group said:
“It is estimated that around 153,000 people live with Parkinson’s in the UK. And it's the fastest growing neurological condition in the world. Parkinson's UK is the UK's leading charity supporting those with the condition. Its mission is to find a cure and improve life for everyone affected by Parkinson's through pioneering research, information, support and campaigning.
“Our local support groups are run by volunteers who give their time to help set up and run regular meetings, social activities and exercise groups. This donation will make a huge difference to the support we can give to Parkinson’s sufferers and their families.”
Pictured left to right: Leigh-Beth Stroud (Parkinson’s UK), Ellie Johnston (Bereavement Services Officer, Southampton City Council) and Claire Hodges (Team Leader, Southampton City Council).
Tina Tolley from Wessex Heartbeat said:
“Heartbeat, a charity of 32 years and our main 24-bedroom facility, Heartbeat House, look after the families of loved ones who are staying in the cardiac unit at the University Hospital Southampton, whilst their loved ones are having cardiac surgery.
“We provide a 'home from home' where our residents can stay for as long as they need, free of charge. The only payment we take is a £35 key deposit and that is all, and they can stay as long as they need. We have had families who have stayed for months, but we never put pressure on those who stay, as it is a relief for them to know, they have no financial burden whilst their loved ones are going through such a traumatic time. We also have a great team who give support, guidance, and even pastoral care.
Heartbeat also funds major projects at the cardiac unit, that would not be covered by existing central funding.
“We are absolutely delighted to receive this very generous donation of £3,866 from the ICCM Recycling of Metals scheme, to benefit our cause, and in turn helping so many people who need our support. We are forever grateful to all involved. You are truly making a difference!"
Pictured left to right: Barbara Sadler (Bereavement Services Officer Southampton City Council), Tina Tolley (Wessex Heartbeat) and Claire Hodges (Team Leader Southampton City Council).
Hazel Bedford, CEO of Sebastian’s Action Trust said:
“At Sebastian’s Action Trust, we stand together with families living with seriously ill children, supporting them through some of life's most difficult moments. Our work relies solely on donations like that given through the ICCM Recycling of Metals Scheme. We receive no government funding, and this donation makes a significant difference, especially during these challenging times for charities and individuals alike. This donation will positively impact the families we help and will enable us to make a tangible difference in their lives.”
Pictured from left to right: Ellie Johnston (Bereavement Services Officer Southampton City Council) and Hazel Bedford (Sebastian’s Action Trust).
