Content

10.1

Sheffield City Council
currently lacks a formal Cremation and Cemetery Services Strategy,
leading to challenges such as limited burial space, outdated
funding models and deteriorating infrastructure. The absence of a
clear plan for the role of cemeteries as green spaces and service
growth has prompted the Council to develop a comprehensive
strategy, with input from residents and external partners. This
report sets out the progress made since November 2023.

 

 

10.2

RESOLVED
UNANIMOUSLY: That the Communities, Parks
and Leisure Policy Committee:-
 

(a) 
notes the contents of this report;
 

(b) 
notes the change of name from Bereavement to
Cremation and Cemetery Services Strategy;
 

(c) 
notes the progress made by officers in developing a
Cremation and Cemetery Services Strategy;
 

(d) 
agrees that officers should continue this work as
outlined in the report; and
 

(e) 
agrees that a final draft strategy be presented to
this Committee in summer 2025 (dates to be confirmed).

 

 

10.3

Reasons for Decision

 

 

10.3.1

Proceeding with developing a
Cremation and Cemetery Strategy will ensure that SCC’s
Cremation and Cemetery Services are effectively managed, inclusive
and responsive to the diverse needs of the city’s population.
A formal strategy will address key challenges, such as the
depletion of burial space, outdated infrastructure and inconsistent
service provision. By developing a clear and comprehensive
strategy, the Council aims to provide a coordinated framework for
growth, improve service quality and ensure that Sheffield’s
Cremation and Cemetery Services meet both current and future
demands, contributing to the overall well-being and resilience of
the community.

 

 

10.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

 

 

10.4.1

Alternative Option 1: Do
Nothing
 
This option was not
recommended. Not having a Cremation and Cemetery Services Strategy
would result in a lack of direction and accountability, causing
services to deteriorate over time. Without a clear plan, burial
provision would remain unaddressed, leading to exhausted cemetery
spaces and insufficient capacity to meet the needs of a growing and
diverse population. The absence of a strategy would also hinder
progress in making services more inclusive and culturally
sensitive, leaving certain groups underserved. Furthermore, a lack
of transparency and structured decision-making could lead to
inconsistent practices, unfair treatment and confusion among
residents. Ultimately, without a cohesive strategy, Sheffield's
Cremation and Cemetery Services would fail to evolve and adapt to
the changing needs of its community, undermining the city's ability
to provide compassionate, reliable support during a difficult
time.