Wolverhampton North East MP Jane Stevenson has urged Wolverhampton Council to reopen the city’s cemeteries as soon as possible, in line with Government guidance, to allow families to grieve for the loss of their loved ones.
In a letter to the Labour leader of the council, Ian Brookfield, Jane said that “the ability for people to visit a cemetery and pay their respects can make a huge difference.” She said that for many people, visiting a cemetery is a routine that has been part of their lives for many years, and to suddenly lose that connection with a loved one is “incredibly hard”.
On Saturday, the Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick MP stated that local authorities must keep parks and cemeteries open, but people must continue to adhere to the social distancing rules.
Mr Jenrick said: “Social distancing measures must be respected, but families must have the opportunity to say a respectful goodbye to those that they love.
“I'm also asking councils to keep open or indeed to reopen cemeteries and graveyards... for people to make that private visit and seek solace at the grave of someone you've loved or to privately lay flowers.
“There have been times in my life when I have needed to do that. These are small steps, but small mercies can make a difference.”
In her letter to Cllr Brookfield, Jane writes: “As the country deals with this unprecedented public health emergency it is absolutely vital that families are allowed to grieve for the loss of their loved ones. […] I therefore urge you to reopen Wolverhampton’s cemeteries and crematoria at the earliest opportunity.”
Wolverhampton Council’s website still advises residents that all cemeteries are currently closed. On 23rd March, Wolverhampton Council decided to close all parks across the city, but quickly reversed this decision the following day as it did not meet Government guidance.
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