Craven District Council is a full member of the Federation of British Cremation Authorities (FBCA) and operates under their strict code of practice.

The crematorium team are qualified and skilled in the process of cremation and ensure all cremations are undertaken in accordance with the industry code of practice.

We understand that many aspects of a cremation and burial are unseen. To disprove rumors and to keep your mind at ease, as Charter members, we welcome anyone who wishes to see the premises and ask us questions. Please see our Inspection and Guiding Principles document for more information.  

Environmental Impact

In accordance with industry guiding principles on Cremation, Craven District Council’s policy allows for the holding over of cremations, principally to contribute to the reduction of harmful emissions. 

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) from fossil fuels is emitted from cremators during  the cremation process. The CO2 emissions are harmful to the environment and are at their highest when a cremator is in pre-heat mode. In order to ensure that cremators are used in the most efficient and least environmentally detrimental way. We have decided not to cremate on the same day as the coffin is received and/or the funeral is held with the applicants consent.

For more information please see the ICCMs holding over policy.

Guidelines to help the reduction of emissions

The coffin must be made of a suitable material which, when placed in a cremator and subjected to the cremation process, is easily combustible and which does not emit smoke, give off toxic gas or leave any retardant smears or drips after final combustion. No metal of any kind shall be used in the manufacture of such coffin except as necessary for its safe construction and then only metal of a high ferrous content. Cross pieces must not be attached to the bottom of the coffin. If it is desired to strengthen the bottom of the coffin, wooden strips may be placed lengthways for this purpose.

Cardboard coffins should not contain chlorine in the wet strength agent. (e.g. not using polyamidoamine-epichlorhydrin based resin (PAA-E).

Coffin furniture and fitting

No metal furniture or fittings whatever shall be used on a coffin for cremation. Coffin handles should be free from unnecessary metal components. External coatings to a coffin must allow for smokeless combustion and the use of nitro-cellulose varnish, polyurethane, melamine and any products containing polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or melamine must not be used in coffin construction or furnishings. Water based lacquer free from additives containing heavy metals may be used for coating a coffin or a suitable cloth may be used for covering a coffin. The exception to the foregoing is the use of polystyrene which is restricted to the coffin nameplate only and this must not exceed 90 grams in weight.

Lining of the coffin

The use of saw dust, cotton wool or shredded paper within a coffin must be avoided. If lining of a coffin is necessary, this should be manufactured from polythene not exceeding 75 microns in thickness. Lead or zinc linings must not be used. The use of shredded paper within a coffin is not permitted.

Clothing and coffin content

In order to minimise the release of pollutants to air, it is recommended that clothing should be of natural fibres and that shoes or any material manufactured from PVC should not be included. Body adornments manufactured from copper should be removed as should any easily removable prostheses or casts of plaster or other material. Additional items, particularly of glass or plastic, should not be placed within the coffin.

Metal Recycling

It was once seen as acceptable to bury implants within the Cemetery, now a huge enviornmental concern. Implants are made from medical grade stainless steel, titanium and colbolt chrome, all non renewable resources. 

Metal Recycling is carried out at Skipton Crematorium in accordance with the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM) guidelines.  We seek consent for the sensitive recycling of metals after cremation.  All metal residues from the cremation process are sent to be recycled unless otherwise stated on the application form.  Monies raised from the recycled metals are donated to local or national death related charities in the UK.

If you do not wish the metals to be recycled we are happy to return them to you or leave them in the cremated remains. If they are left in the cremated remains they would need to be buried rather than scattered. Other metals may also be returned including ferrous metals, mainly nails from the coffin, and some small granules of precious metals.

Any other questions you may have can be found on our FAQs page. 

Information on Embalming

What is embalming?

Historically, the process is identified with the Egyptians and the mummification of bodies, whose beliefs required them to preserve their leaders.

Embalming is defined as the preservation of a body from decay through arterial injection of embalming fluid.

The process of embalming has three main aims:

• Preservation of the body – Embalming helps to maintain the deceased in as good a condition as possible during the period between death and the funeral. For those wishing to visit their loved one in the chapel of rest, this will make the experience as pleasant as possible during these difficult circumstances.
• Presentation – The Funeral Director will always lay out the deceased looking as presentable as possible to give families the best possible final memory of their loved one. Embalming greatly improves the look of the deceased and aids Funeral Directors in the presentation.
• Protection – This comes from the embalming process by way of the fact the body is hygienically treated and this kills bacteria and viruses. Therefore reducing the risk of cross infection with family and friends if they come to visit their loved ones in the Chapel of Rest, as well as Funeral Directors and staff.

Environmental Issues 

Some burial schemes, such as woodland burial, may prohibit the use of chemicals and as well as horticulture chemicals. Although research into the effects of embalming fluid on soil organisms and air quality is limited, environmentalists will generally disapprove of embalming.

Those who have concerns over the effects of embalming and the environment have the right to stipulate that this is not carried out.

Do you have a choice?

You should reasonably expect to be informed about the embalming process. There is no legal requirement for embalming to take place.

If you are opposed to embalming, it may be advisable to expressly forbid it.

More information can be found under the Charter for the Bereaved.

Infant Cremation

We have ensured there are various sections of the cemetery available for parents to lay their babies to rest. This includes a new section known as the Angels Garden.

Various memorial options are also available to commemorate your baby. Please see our page on Beautiful Memorials to remember your loved ones.

The Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM) Joint Policy Statement on Infant Cremation (England/Wales) can be found here: Policy Statement for Infant Cremation. The Charter rights on Baby and Infant cremations can be read here.   

These policies are carefully adhered to at Skipton Crematorium and always have been. We have our own Infant Cremation Procedure that you can read. 

SANDS offer support for bereaved parents who have lost a baby. The following booklet may be of some support - SANDS - Saying Goodbye to your Baby or visit the SANDS Website