Wealden Crematorium welcomes residents for behind the scenes open day

Residents are invited to discover the important role Wealden Crematorium plays in supporting families and the local community at its annual, free open day on Wednesday 19 August from 10:30am till 3pm.

As part of Wealden Crematorium’s annual behind-the-scenes open day, ‘Beyond the Farewell’, is a unique event bringing together leading experts from across the bereavement, funeral and cremation sectors to share knowledge, challenge misconceptions and encourage open conversations about death, dying and remembrance.

With a line-up of speakers throughout the day, the event offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from industry leaders, local authority specialists and bereavement professionals, while exploring the crematorium and learning more about the care, innovation and community support that underpin modern bereavement services.

The event is designed for anyone who would like to better understand how the crematorium operates, those planning ahead for themselves or a loved one, people supporting someone through bereavement, professionals working in related sectors, or anyone interested in learning more about a service that supports thousands of families each year.

Councillor Kelvin Williams, Alliance for Wealden (Liberal Democrat) and lead councillor for Public Health and Asset Management, said, “We know many people are curious about what happens at a crematorium but may never have had the opportunity to ask questions or see behind the scenes. This open day provides a respectful space where visitors can learn about the process and hear from experts across the bereavement sector and gain reassurance about the care provided to every family. By introducing guest speakers this year, we’re offering an even broader insight into the many aspects of bereavement, funeral planning and remembrance that affect us all.”

Agenda for the day: 

10.45am – welcome and introduction from Wealden Crematorium Manager.

11am – “Why Independence Matters in a Changing Funeral Landscape”

Speaker: Oliver Towner, Chair of the SAIF Environmental Group.

This speech will be exploring community involvement, personalisation, continuity of care, funeral director regulation and the environmental opportunities shaping the profession.

11.45am – “Sadmin: The Bureaucracy of Death”

Speaker: Joy Jones, Service Manager for Bereavement & Medical Examiner Services.

Joy will be offering practical guidance on navigating the paperwork and processes following a bereavement.

12.30pm – Celebrating a Life, Not Just Marking a Death”

Speaker: Janeen from Obitus.

Janeen will be demonstrating how technology and creativity can transform a funeral into a meaningful celebration of life.

1.15pm – “From Cremation to Compassion”

Speaker: Julie Dunk from Orthometals

Julie will be explaining how metal recycling after cremation supports bereavement charities while protecting the environment.

2pm – “Who Takes Care of Your Funeral if There’s No Family or Money?”

Speaker: Wealden District Council

Wealden council representatives will be presenting about public health funerals and what they can teach us about preparing for death.

2.45pm – “Cremator Technology”

Speaker: Luke Kenyon, Facultative Technologies

Luke will be showcasing the future of cremation, the carbon-saving benefits of the latest technology innovations and the crematorium’s brand-new hybrid cremator.

The event will conclude at 3pm.