METAL left behind after people are cremated is being recycled to raise money for good causes, including a neonatal and stillborn charity in Southend.

Southend Council’s Bereavement Services team is just one of a small number of cremation authorities to take part in the recycled orthopaedic metals scheme. It’s run by the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM) to help raise cash - and help the environment.

With the permission of the bereaved families, the metals left behind following a cremation, for example from orthopaedic implants such as hip or knee replacements, are recycled through a specialised company contracted by the ICCM.

The proceeds are then shared between a host of charities and organisations associated with bereavement and bereavement support.

Southend Council successfully submitted a nomination to the ICCM for £5,000 to be given to Sands, the stillbirth and neonatal death charity which operates in Southend.

The charity helps to support anyone who has been affected by the death of a baby, working to improve the care for bereaved parents and promotes research to reduce the loss of babies’ lives.

Councillor Mark Flewitt and cemetery and crematorium operations manager Stephen Taylor presented the £5,000 donation to Brian English, chair of Essex Sands.

Mr Flewitt, cabinet member for public protection, said: “Many of us will have experienced loss at some point in our lives and it is devastating.

“I am therefore very pleased and humbled to have made this donation to Sands knowing the work they do to support grieving parents and families through what must be the darkest time in their lives.

“This will help those at Sands to continue their amazing work supporting families and loved ones going through such an exceptionally difficult time, and I would like to thank the bereaved families and friends who allow us to participate in this scheme which does so much good.”

Brian English, chair of Essex Sands, said: “The work of Sands is totally dependent on donations and we are extremely grateful for this generous donation from the ICCM, that has been organised and supported by the Southend Bereavement Services Team. The funds will be put to good use supporting bereaved parents.”