City of Lincoln Council has called in the Police to look into suggestions that staff at Lincoln Crematorium have not dealt with the burial of ashes in accordance with the wishes of the families of the deceased.
An investigation into one of six alleged cases has begun, and he council has commissioned an urgent inspection of the facility by the Federation of Burial and Cremation Authorities.
Angela Andrews, Chief Executive of City of Lincoln Council, said: “I am shocked and distraught to confirm that a small number of families did not receive the level of care and service they and their loved ones deserved, and rightly expected, in relation to the burial of their loved ones’ ashes.
“They were let down at a time when they needed the high level of dedication and professionalism that our crematorium team has always been proud to provide.
“I have personally visited or spoken to the six families identified as being directly affected by this situation, to work out how we can best help them through this difficult time and to offer our deepest apologies.
“I have been humbled by the responses I received from these families, and we are working with them to agree on lasting tributes to their loved ones.
“We have brought in experienced industry professionals to support the operation of Lincoln Crematorium and ensure we can continue to deliver a committed and professional service. I can reassure anyone using this service that the high standards required are being met.
“I would like to reassure those who have previously used the crematorium that there is no evidence of any other families being affected, other than those we have already been in contact with.
“This situation came to light thanks to concerns raised by council staff. We have launched a thorough internal investigation into what happened, and how it happened, and our initial findings have been shared with Lincolnshire Police who are now investigating one of the incidents.
“While a police investigation is ongoing, it is not possible for me to say any more. We will also be conducting a full internal review into the crematorium’s processes and procedures and will provide a further update on this in due course.
“I would like to reiterate how deeply sorry I am to all those affected by what has happened.”
