Local charity Brave Futures has been presented with a £17,000 donation thanks to a national recycling scheme supported by Ipswich Borough Council.
With prior agreement by the family of loved ones, metal in cremation ashes is collected and recycled, with all money generated from recycling then given to a local charity. The chosen charity is linked to bereavement in some way, operates locally, and is a cause suggested by families.
The Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM) has run this Metal Recycling Scheme for many years. Since it was established, staff at scheme member crematoria have raised over £24 million for charities across the UK.
Councillor Stefan Long, Ipswich Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Environment and Sport, says:
“Brave Futures is such a worthy charity doing some amazing work and I know its incredible team of staff and volunteers has helped so many children and young people in Ipswich and beyond.
“£17,000 is a considerable amount for a very deserving local cause. It’s wonderful to be able to give something back to Brave Futures and their specialist support services.”
“As my Council portfolio covers responsibility for parks and cemeteries, special thanks go to the bereaved families that give their consent to assist this scheme, allowing local charities to benefit from their loss. Just like being an organ donor, this really is about giving back to others in need as a legacy.”
Hannah Walker of Brave Futures, says:
"We are incredibly grateful to have been nominated to receive this extraordinary donation through the ICCM Metal Recycling Scheme. This is one of the largest voluntary donations Brave Futures has ever received, and it will make a life-changing difference to the children and young people we support.
“This generous gift is enough to fully fund a year of specialist support for nine children, helping them to process trauma, rebuild confidence and move forward with hope. We are honoured to receive this funding through a scheme that creates such a meaningful legacy and will have a lasting impact on the lives of children and young people across our community."
Pictured at the cheque presentation are, left to right: Councillor Stefan Long, Ipswich Borough Council’s portfolio holder for Environment and Sport; Hannah Walker, Engagement and Fundraising Manager at Brave Futures; Steve Flory, Chair of Trustees Brave Futures.