Crematorium praised by inspector
GREENOCK Crematorium staff have been praised by a senior inspector for providing a high level of service.
An inspection took place last week on Tuesday 18 June 2024 and highlighted high standards of record management, processes and policies, and leadership that culminated in ‘a first-class service to the local community and beyond’.
A report was published on Friday, 21 June 2024, outlining details of the visit.
During 2023, there were 823 cremations and crematorium staff were praised for their high standards across the board from office management through to dealing with ashes.
The inspection also praised the team for continuing to operate and maintaining levels of service during recent upgrades, which have improved working conditions and equipment.
Work has taken place in recent months to replace the cremators, redevelop a disused listed building into new staff welfare facilities, and upgrade music and livestreaming systems.
The inspector also praised the condition of public and private areas, which were found to be ‘clean, tidy, and in a state of good repair’ and commented that the grounds and garden were ‘well maintained’.
In his report, Robert Swanson QPM, Senior Inspector of Burial, Cremation and Funeral Directors (Scotland), said: “Greenock Crematorium continues to provide a high level of service, and, as has been the case during previous inspections, no shortcomings were noted in any area of the cremation process, with good practice noted throughout the different stages.
“The crematorium continues to operate as a National Training Centre for operatives, and it is with great credit to staff that attendees all speak highly of the training on their return to their home crematoria.
“As referred to earlier, there have been recent changes of staff within the office, however as they are under the direct guidance and support of a highly regarded and experienced team leader the Inspector does not anticipate any drop in the high standards the crematorium continues to provide.
“Overall, the inspection found Greenock Crematorium to be providing a first-class service to the local community and beyond.”
The inspection also highlighted the crematorium’s participation in the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM) recycling of metals scheme which raised £12,000 for a local charity.
Stuart Jamieson, Inverclyde Council’s director of environment and regeneration, said: “We have a small but incredibly experienced and hard-working team who run the crematorium as is highlighted in the report and it is thanks to their dedication and knowledge that the service has received such fulsome praise.
“Their line of work requires tact and compassion, and they are consummate professionals who deserve all the praise they get.
“I would like to place on record my thanks for all their hard work.
“I’d also like to thank the public for their patience and understanding while the various improvement works were carried out in and around the crematorium.”
More information about burials and cremations and about Greenock Crematorium can be found on the Inverclyde Council website in the 'Burials & Cremations' section or via the link in the Related Links section of this page.