We are the longest established membership organisation serving the bereavement care sector in the United Kingdom. We champion the needs of bereaved people by influencing legislation, encouraging dialogue and empowering bereavement professionals to achieve great things.
Our team is small and our commitment is huge, standing on our history rather than resting on it, we continually seek to help our members succeed with training and guidance in best practice.
With hands-on experience across all levels of bereavement services, spanning both public and private sectors, I’m driven by a deep passion to champion services that not only meet the needs of bereaved individuals, but also exceed their expectations. My work across diverse regions of the UK has given me a powerful insight into how uniquely local, personal, and intricate bereavement support can be. This understanding has been instrumental in shaping strategies to help our sector grow and evolve.
I firmly believe that those who work in this field do so with a genuine calling, which is to support people at one of the most emotionally vulnerable moments in their lives. That belief fuels everything I, and we at the ICCM do. Leading the ICCM is an honour, and in our role as the sector’s leading provider of training, guidance, and policy, I’m focused on building a future where our members are empowered, inspired, and equipped to deliver the highest standards of care so that together, we can drive the sector and standards forward.
I like long walks in the park, singing and collecting Tele Tubbie memorabilia
Jennifer’s background is in crematorium management, and she was fortunate to manage a beautiful site in Ayrshire where she was involved in the crematorium from its earliest days. She then saw it through its evolution to an award-winning facility, so she understands the practicalities of developing and growing a trusted and respected community asset. Her role in the ICCM is to assist members with any queries, particularly regarding Scottish law and to keep members up to date by sharing good news stories and best practice through The Journal.
They have a passion for learning, often diving into books, online courses, or creative hobbies to explore new ideas and skills during their downtime.
Trevor is the Finance and IT Manager for ICCM. This means he handles all membership renewals and information to make sure we are getting and keeping in touch with you for updates, courses and legislation. He is also responsible for all ICCM financial and management accounting, managing feedback on our courses to improve them and the administration of donations from the ICCM/ OrthoMetals, national recycling of metals scheme.
When they’re not at their desk, you’ll usually find them experimenting in the kitchen. They love trying new recipes, perfecting old favorites, and sharing food with friends and family.
Sofia’s career in bereavement service started in 2002,covering all aspects of cemetery & crematorium Management. She joined the ICCM in 2019 and uses her vast experience to help members on cemetery and crematorium operational and legislative issues.
Outside of work, they enjoy spending time outdoors—whether it’s going for a weekend hike, exploring new walking trails, or simply relaxing in the sunshine with a good playlist.
Having served with the ICCM for over two decades Julie’s role has gone through a number of changes. She continues to be the focal point for members, helping with their queries. She also manages training and development schedule and administers the course certification process.
Evenings are often spent unwinding with a great film or catching up on their latest TV series. They appreciate a good storyline and are always open to recommendations.
Martin has over 24 years of experience with the Cemetery Operatives Training Scheme (COTS), working with both Berkshire College of Agriculture and the ICCM. He progressed from course technician to instructor and later became an NPTC/City & Guilds assessor. His extensive hands-on experience across diverse ground conditions and practices makes his knowledge exceptional, and he works alongside instructors who stay current with industry, supplier, and Health & Safety Executive guidance.
On 29th September 2003 at an AGM held at the Prince of Wales Hotel, Southport, the once familiar initials IBCA became ICCM.
This was the 5th name change for an organisation that began life back in 1913 as the United Kingdom Association of Cemetery Superintendents.
The first name change came in 1918 to that of the National Association of Cemetery Superintendents. The second, in 1932, reflecting the growing prevalence of cremation, to the National Association of Cemetery and Crematorium Superintendents. Then, in 1947 when, following amendments to the organisation’s rules and standing orders, the name Institute of Burial and Cremation Administration was thought to better describe the organisation’s purpose. Eleven years later, after many years of trying, the IBCA achieved the significant recognition of ‘Incorporation’ from the then Board of Trade and its fourth name change took place necessitating the addition of ‘Inc’. There have been many other ‘milestones’ along the way including, in 1927, the introduction of examinations for superintendents, the forerunner of today’s BTEC HNC accredited Institute diploma modules.
In 1932 the first annual ‘joint’ conference was held in conjunction with the organisation we know today as the Federation of British Cremation Authorities. The first edition of the members quarterly magazine, The Journal, was produced in 1935. Known affectionately today as ‘TJ’, it is now widely regarded as one of the finest trade publications in its field.
During the Second World War, when many organisations ceased to function, the association formed a War Emergency Committee which responded tirelessly to circulars from the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Labour. A shortage of gravediggers was a serious problem, with young men being called to arms. As the Institute moved into the 1990s it was becoming apparent that the relatively strong financial position it had enjoyed during the latter half of the 60’s was beginning to erode.
In 1990 a Trust fund was established to encourage burial & cremation initiatives and to support members during their studies.
In 1993, The Institute underwrote the formation of the Confederation of Burial Authorities.
In 1995, The Institute commissioned research into the disposal of foetal remains resulting in a major guidance document and closer working with Health Trusts throughout the UK.
During 1996 the Charter for the Bereaved was launched, proving vital to the emergence of a new approach within the Institute. In the next year, 1997, the Cemetery Operatives Training Scheme launched.
In 1998 the Executive Committee was replaced by a Board of Directors elected by the members, and the first of the Diploma modules outsourced. During the Millennium year the Best Value Assessment Process was launched, providing clear links between the Charter for the Bereaved and the Best Value process.
In April 2001 the Institute appointed its first full-time officer, Tim Morris. This proved to be the catalyst for further rapid changes.
In 2002 the treasurer John Robson announced a surplus of £60,000 enabling the Institute to embark upon opening its first dedicated headquarters at the City of London Cemetery and Crematorium and the appointment of two further full-time officers covering training and development and administration. In 2003 our name was changed to the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management. Our president at that time, Chris Johns said ‘This will be a great honour for us and I confidently predict that the ICCM can look forward to a highly successful future assisting its members through the provision of education and training programmes, the production of policy and best practice documents and advice designed to improve services to the bereaved’.
Following further expansion of activity, the Institute created an additional post of Technical Services Manager. In 2005 the membership of the Institute voted by a majority of five to one to create a corporate arm. At the same time the membership of the Confederation of Burial Authorities voted to dissolve and merge into ICCM Corporate. This was achieved and finalised at the 2005 AGM. This resulted in the formation of the Corporate and Professional committees both of which had equal representation on the board of Directors.
In 2010 members voted 92% in favour to change the Articles of Association which effectively disbanded the committees, with election to the board being first past the post. The lack of nominees to fill committee seats had resulted in no elections for a number of years, therefore the decision to slim down to face the challenges of the future was taken by the membership.
The Institute is now the only organisation within bereavement services to provide fully accredited and externally validated education and training opportunities for cemetery and crematorium staff at all levels.
David Wilson is an operations expert with a focus on optimizing processes and enhancing operational efficiency. He has a proven track record of improving productivity across various departments.
David enjoys cycling, woodworking, and spending time with his family.
Emily Davis is a marketing strategist with a passion for brand development and customer engagement. With a background in digital marketing, she has successfully launched numerous campaigns that resonate with audiences.
Emily loves painting, hiking, and exploring new cuisines.
Michael Johnson is a technology visionary with a focus on software development and system architecture. He has been instrumental in driving technological advancements within the company.
Michael enjoys playing chess, reading science fiction, and mentoring young developers.
Jane Smith is a financial expert with a knack for strategic planning and risk management. With over 15 years in finance, she has successfully guided companies through complex financial landscapes.
Outside of work, Jane loves cooking, traveling, and practicing yoga.
John Doe has over 20 years of experience in the tech industry, leading innovative projects that have transformed businesses. He is passionate about leveraging technology to create solutions that enhance productivity and efficiency.
In his free time, John enjoys hiking, photography, and volunteering at local charities.
