Redditch Crematorium has gifted thousands of pounds to support the work of a bereavement charity into the new year.

Cruse Bereavement Support was selected to receive a £14,000 funding boost after it was nominated by the crematorium as part of the metal recycling scheme from the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM).

The scheme involves family members giving permission for residual metals, including replacement hips, to be recycled at the crematorium with the money raised being donated to charity.

Leader of Redditch Borough Council, Matt Dormer, said: “A huge thank you to Cruse who offer essential support for the wellbeing of our community during times of profound loss.

“They are a very worthy recipient and this contribution will undoubtedly make a positive difference to the lives of those in need.”

Cruse Bereavement Support will use the money to continue to offer support, advice and information to children, young people and adults when someone around them dies.

The organisation strives for a world where everyone grieving is supported, respected and understood and continues to work to enhance society’s care of bereaved people.

Its services include face-to-face, group, telephone, email and website support as well as providing training and consultancy for external organisations and for those who might encounter bereaved people in the course of their work.

Community fundraising and engagement manager for Cruse, Sarah Bingham, said: “For more than 60 years, Cruse has been a beacon of solace, providing crucial support, information and advocacy during one of life’s most painful and unavoidable times.

“The support we have received from both the ICCM and Redditch Borough Council will enable us to continue this fundamental work well into next year and help many more local people to cope with their grief.

“We are so immensely grateful for this incredible donation.”