Crematorium’s helping hand for day centre
A centre which provides day care facilities for older people with physical and/or mental infirmity who need support has been given a helping hand itself from a local crematorium.
Answer House Day Care Centre, in Whitburn, West Lothian, provides support four days per week and also accommodates other community groups, including Whitburn Pentecostal Church ‘Treasure Kids’, West Lothian 50+ Network Choir and, more recently, The West Lothian African Women’s Network.
It has been given a £4,000 donation from West Lothian Crematorium, from the proceeds of its metal recycling scheme.
With the consent of families, metals recovered during cremation are recycled, and any money raised is used to support selected charities, local activities and environmental initiatives which benefit the communities that the crematorium serves.
West Lothian Crematorium is part of Westerleigh Group, one of the UK’s largest independent owners and operators of crematoria and cemeteries, with 40 sites in England, Scotland, and Wales, all set within beautifully landscaped gardens of remembrance which provide peaceful places for people to visit and reflect.
Manager Carole Rae said: “The centre contacted us after finding out about our metal recycling scheme and asked if we would consider providing them with some support.
“I was amazed by the work covered by the people who run it, and the support they provide to families from a number of different villages in West Lothian.
“They offer support to anyone who requires it, but mostly people living with dementia, and the project is run by a small team of part-time workers plus volunteers. They also offer valuable placement opportunities for local students.
“Regular visits from local nurseries, primary schools and secondary schools take place allowing lots of intergenerational activities to take place.
“There is a good routine of breakfast first, followed by exercise and thereafter, attendees can decide what they want to do with their time.
“Some choose to upkeep their own skills and some opt for music, dance, art, singing, board games, crafting or just quiet time. Bingo and quizzes are an everyday favourite with the users too.
“The project provides respite for families and carers, too, allowing them to make bank visits or other appointments, or simply to take some important time out from their full-time caring.
“It’s a very upbeat and happy place, and I was overwhelmed by the support I saw there and feel privileged to be able to provide them with this donation, which I know will be put to very good use.”
Andrea Gourlay, of Answer House Day Care Centre, said: “The centre is nearly 20 years old and we’re planning to carry out a programme of refurbishment and upgrades over the Christmas period.
“This generous donation from West Lothian Crematorium will make a significant contribution towards the costs of this work, and we’re very grateful.”
To find out more about the Answer Project, visit www.answer-me.org.uk
For more information about West Lothian Crematorium, as well as the exceptional care and support it provides to the bereaved in creating uniquely personal funerals and memorials for their loved ones, visit www.westlothiancrematorium.co.uk
